Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress hp
Sign In
Advertise with Us
PURITAN MEDICAL

Download Mobile App




Novel, High-Accuracy Blood Test Can Screen for Multiple Cancers

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 26 Nov 2019
A new targeted methylation-based assay has been developed that is able to screen blood samples for more than 20 types of cancer at all stages, including lung cancer, with high accuracy and it also correctly pinpoints the tissue of origin (TOO).

Methylation works to activate or deactivate genes, and altered methylation suggests cancer. More...
Besides lung cancer, the methylation-based assay screens for anal, bladder, colorectal, esophageal, head and neck, liver/bile duct, lymphoma, ovarian, pancreatic, plasma cell neoplasm, and stomach cancers, among others. Methylation works to activate or deactivate genes, and altered methylation suggests cancer.

Scientists from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, MA, USA) and their colleagues in a prospective study colleagues analyzed cell-free DNA (cfDNA), DNA that is released into the bloodstream following cell death, in 3,583 blood samples, of which 1,530 were from patients with cancer and 2,053 were from cancer-free individuals. The assay functions by quantifying abnormal methylation patterns in cfDNA, whereas liquid biopsies isolate genetic mutations or other types of DNA alterations.

The team reported that the overall specificity of the assay was 99.4%, and the sensitivity for aggressive cancers was 76%. Specifically, sensitivity was 32% in stage I cancer, 76% in stage II cancer, 85% in stage III cancer, and 93% in stage IV cancer. In all cancer types, sensitivity was 55%. The scientists also noted that 97% of samples yielded TOO results, with correct TOO recorded in 89% of samples. For diagnosing non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), biopsy is currently the gold standard, while molecular testing is used to shed light on treatment options in advanced-stage or even early-stage NSCLC.

The scientists stated that in many types of cancer, methylation is better reflective of cancer diagnosis than are other types of mutations. Indeed, they had previously found that whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (i.e., the methylation assay) outperformed whole-genome and targeted-sequencing strategies in detecting cancer. Ultimately, if this new methylation-based assay was to pick up even a small number of early-stage cancer types, many patients would benefit from earlier treatment.

Geoffrey R. Oxnard, MD, a medical oncologist and lead author of the study, said, “Our previous work indicated that methylation-based assays outperform traditional DNA-sequencing approaches to detecting multiple forms of cancer in blood samples. The results of the new study demonstrate that such assays are a feasible way of screening people for cancer.” The study was presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology Congress, (ESMO), held in September 27–October 1, 2019, in Barcelona, Spain.

Related Links:
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute


Gold Member
Quantitative POC Immunoassay Analyzer
EASY READER+
Serological Pipet Controller
PIPETBOY GENIUS
New
Chlamydia Trachomatis Test
Aptima Chlamydia Trachomatis Assay
New
Staining Management Software
DakoLink
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








DIASOURCE (A Biovendor Company)

Channels

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: A simple blood test could replace surgical biopsies for early detecion of heart transplant rejection (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

Blood Test Detects Organ Rejection in Heart Transplant Patients

Following a heart transplant, patients are required to undergo surgical biopsies so that physicians can assess the possibility of organ rejection. Rejection happens when the recipient’s immune system identifies... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2025 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.