What blood test shows cancer
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Blood Tests for Cancer Detection
Introduction to Cancer Blood Tests
Early detection of cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Blood tests have emerged as a promising non-invasive method for early cancer detection, leveraging molecular markers such as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and protein biomarkers. This article explores various blood tests that show potential in detecting different types of cancer.
CancerSEEK: Multi-Analyte Blood Test
Detection and Specificity
CancerSEEK is a pioneering blood test designed to detect eight common types of cancer, including ovarian, liver, stomach, pancreatic, esophageal, colorectal, lung, and breast cancers. It combines the analysis of eight circulating protein biomarkers and tumor-specific mutations in cell-free DNA (cfDNA). In a study involving 1005 patients with non-metastatic cancers, CancerSEEK demonstrated a sensitivity range of 69% to 98% and a specificity greater than 99%. This high specificity means that false positives are rare, making CancerSEEK a reliable tool for early cancer detection.
Localization of Cancer
In addition to detection, CancerSEEK can localize the cancer to a small number of anatomical sites in a median of 83% of patients, aiding in targeted diagnostic follow-ups and treatment planning.
Full Blood Count (FBC) for Colorectal Cancer
Components and Prediction Models
The Full Blood Count (FBC) test, which includes 20 components, has been systematically reviewed for its association with colorectal cancer. Key components such as red blood cells, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, red blood cell distribution width, white blood cell count, and platelets have shown significant associations with colorectal cancer diagnosis. Thirteen FBC-based prediction models have been developed, with varying performance metrics, indicating potential for early detection but requiring further validation.
Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Tests
Feasibility and Safety
A large-scale feasibility study involving 10,006 women evaluated a multicancer blood test combined with positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT). This study detected 26 cancers of various types, with a specificity of 98.9% and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 19.4%. When combined with PET-CT, the specificity and PPV increased to 99.6% and 28.3%, respectively. This approach not only detected cancers early but also minimized unnecessary follow-up procedures, demonstrating the test's safety and feasibility for routine clinical care.
Tumor Origin Detection
MCED tests based on cfDNA have shown an accuracy of 79% in predicting the tissue of origin for various cancers. This accuracy is crucial for guiding appropriate treatment and improving patient outcomes. The tests utilize methylation patterns, fragmentation profiles, and combinations of mutations in cfDNA and protein markers to achieve this level of precision.
PanSeer: Early Detection Before Symptoms
Longitudinal Study Results
The PanSeer test, based on circulating tumor DNA methylation, has demonstrated the ability to detect cancer up to four years before conventional diagnosis. In a study involving 605 asymptomatic individuals, PanSeer detected five common types of cancer with 95% accuracy in those who were later diagnosed, highlighting its potential for very early detection.
Conclusion
Blood tests for cancer detection, such as CancerSEEK, FBC, MCED, and PanSeer, offer promising avenues for early diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes. These tests leverage molecular markers to detect cancer with high specificity and sensitivity, and some can even localize the tumor's origin. Continued research and validation are essential to integrate these tests into routine clinical practice, ultimately reducing cancer mortality through earlier intervention.
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