What blood tests indicate cancer
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Blood Tests Indicating Cancer: Key Insights from Recent Research
Multi-Analyte Blood Tests for Cancer Detection
CancerSEEK: A Comprehensive Blood Test
The CancerSEEK test is a significant advancement in the early detection of cancer. This noninvasive blood test can detect eight common types of cancer by assessing circulating protein biomarkers and tumor-specific mutations in cell-free DNA. In a study involving 1005 patients with nonmetastatic cancers, CancerSEEK demonstrated a sensitivity range of 69% to 98% and a specificity greater than 99%. This test is particularly effective for cancers such as ovary, liver, stomach, pancreas, and esophagus, for which no other screening tests are available for average-risk individuals.
cfDNA-Based Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Assays
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA)-based assays are another promising approach for early cancer detection. These tests analyze methylation patterns, fragmentation profiles, and mutations in cfDNA to identify the presence and origin of tumors. Studies have shown that these assays can accurately determine the tissue of origin in 79% of cases, with colorectal cancers showing the highest accuracy. The ability to pinpoint the tumor's location is crucial for guiding appropriate treatment.
Specific Blood Tests for Colorectal Cancer
Full Blood Count (FBC) and Colorectal Cancer
The Full Blood Count (FBC) test, which includes components such as red blood cells, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, and white blood cell count, has been associated with colorectal cancer detection. Meta-analyses have shown that certain FBC components are significantly different in patients with colorectal cancer compared to healthy individuals. Thirteen FBC-based prediction models have been developed, with varying degrees of success in early detection.
Fecal Immunochemical Tests (FITs)
Fecal Immunochemical Tests (FITs) are more sensitive than traditional fecal occult blood tests (FOBTs) for detecting colorectal cancer and adenomas. FITs require fewer stool samples and have higher participation rates due to their ease of use. Sensitivities for FITs range from 25% to 100%, with specificities usually exceeding 90%. These tests are endorsed by several professional societies and are widely used in screening programs in Europe and Asia.
General Blood Tests and Cancer Diagnosis
Common Blood Tests in Primary Care
Common blood tests such as full blood count (FBC), urea and electrolytes (U&E), and liver function tests (LFTs) are frequently used in primary care to support cancer diagnosis. These tests are more commonly used in patients presenting with nonspecific symptoms like fatigue or weight loss, and less frequently in those with specific symptoms like breast lumps or skin lesions . The use of these tests can help guide referral decisions and support the diagnostic process.
Organ-Specific Blood Tests
Organ-specific blood tests, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and CA125, are used based on the presenting symptoms. For example, PSA is commonly measured in men with lower urinary tract symptoms, while CA125 is used in women with abdominal distention. These tests help in the early detection of cancers related to specific organs.
Conclusion
Blood tests play a crucial role in the early detection and diagnosis of cancer. Multi-analyte tests like CancerSEEK and cfDNA-based assays offer promising results for detecting multiple cancer types and determining their origin. Specific tests such as FBC and FITs are particularly useful for colorectal cancer, while common and organ-specific blood tests in primary care support the diagnostic process for various cancers. Continued research and development in this field are essential to improve the accuracy and applicability of these tests in clinical practice.
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