We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress hp
Sign In
Advertise with Us
GLOBE SCIENTIFIC, LLC

Download Mobile App




Mouthwash-Based Test Could Predict Head and Neck Cancer Recurrence

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 16 Aug 2024

Head and neck cancers comprise close to 4% of all cancer cases in the U. More...

S., predominantly affecting individuals over the age of 50. Men are over twice as likely to develop this type of cancer compared to women. The primary treatments, surgery and radiation, can severely impact functions such as speech, swallowing, and physical appearance, significantly diminishing the quality of life. These impacts can intensify with cancer recurrence, which is challenging to detect as it is hard to distinguish between normal post-treatment changes and a recurrence of the cancer. Early detection of recurrence could greatly reduce the severity of outcomes for patients. Now, a new test using a simple mouthwash to detect biomarkers shows promise in predicting disease recurrence in patients with head and neck cancer.

A previous study by researchers at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine (Miami, FL, USA) explored how biomarkers in oral rinses could indicate a person’s risk of developing oral or oropharyngeal tumors, which are among the most common head and neck cancers. They identified two crucial biomarkers: CD44, a molecule linked to tumor initiation, and total protein levels. In this new study, the researchers, along with their collaborators, examined whether levels of these biomarkers could predict recurrence in patients already diagnosed with the disease. Their clinical trial involved over 160 patients from multiple cancer centers, who used oral-rinse samples up to 18 months post-treatment.

To analyze the presence of these biomarkers, the team employed both laboratory tests and experimental lateral-flow tests, similar to the technology used in home pregnancy and COVID-19 tests. Laboratory assays showed a correlation between the levels of these biomarkers and subsequent disease recurrence. Specifically, patients with total protein levels approximately twice the normal amount three months after treatment exhibited a 65% higher risk of recurrence. Similarly, those with triple the normal CD44 levels showed a 62% increased risk of recurrence. These findings, detailed in JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, could improve the prediction and detection of recurrence in head and neck cancers. Additionally, the study provided preliminary data supporting the development of a rapid, point-of-care test to measure these biomarkers, potentially accelerating its availability for clinical use.

“Our study suggests biomarker detection in saliva collected from an oral rinse after initial treatment offers potential to readily assess recurrence risk,” said Elizabeth Franzmann, MD, a head and neck surgeon at Sylvester, and co-corresponding author of the study. “Elevated levels of either of two biomarkers were associated with disease return.”

Related Links:
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center


Gold Member
Antipsychotic TDM Assays
Saladax Antipsychotic Assays
Serological Pipet Controller
PIPETBOY GENIUS
New
Silver Member
Cell and Tissue Culture Plastics
Diamond® SureGro™ Cell and Tissue Culture Plastics
New
Vasculitis Diagnostic Test
AESKULISA Vasculitis-Screen
Read the full article by registering today, it's FREE! It's Free!
Register now for FREE to LabMedica.com and get access to news and events that shape the world of Clinical Laboratory Medicine.
  • Free digital version edition of LabMedica International sent by email on regular basis
  • Free print version of LabMedica International magazine (available only outside USA and Canada).
  • Free and unlimited access to back issues of LabMedica International in digital format
  • Free LabMedica International Newsletter sent every week containing the latest news
  • Free breaking news sent via email
  • Free access to Events Calendar
  • Free access to LinkXpress new product services
  • REGISTRATION IS FREE AND EASY!
Click here to Register








Channels

Clinical Chemistry

view channel
Image: Ear wax could be a possible screening medium for Parkinson’s disease (Photo courtesy of 123RF)

Earwax Test Accurately Detects Parkinson’s by Identifying Odor Molecules

Current tests for Parkinson’s disease (PD) rely heavily on clinical scales and neuroimaging, which are often subjective, expensive, and ill-suited for routine screening. Since most treatments only slow... Read more

Hematology

view channel
Image: CitoCBC is the world first cartridge-based CBC to be granted CLIA Waived status by FDA (Photo courtesy of CytoChip)

Disposable Cartridge-Based Test Delivers Rapid and Accurate CBC Results

Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most commonly ordered lab tests, crucial for diagnosing diseases, monitoring therapies, and conducting routine health screenings. However, more than 90% of physician... Read more

Immunology

view channel
Image: T cell immunity could be a marker for early Parkinson’s treatment (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

T Cells in Blood Can Detect Parkinson's Years Before Diagnosis

Diagnosing Parkinson’s disease before the appearance of motor symptoms remains one of neurology’s most significant challenges. Patients can go years—even decades—without a diagnosis, as subtle early indicators... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2025 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.