Liquid biopsy is an examination capable of detecting small fragments of tumor DNA in a person’s blood sample, being considered an innovative test that, in the future, could replace conventional biopsy, in which a tissue sample needs to be taken.Learn more about biopsy.
This test is noninvasive because it does not require cuts or surgery, and works as an excellent alternative for patients where biopsy is not possible due to a difficult location of the tumor or insufficient tissue, for example.For example, it is also very useful to monitor the evolution of the disease or follow the treatment applied.
- Liquid biopsy is performed in clinical laboratories containing the test.
- Upon doctor’s request.
- This review is still recent.
- Requiring the use of technology to detect genetic material and can therefore cost up to about R$1.
- 000.
- Depending on the lab and its location.
Liquid biopsy is indicated to identify DNA fragments of certain cancers, as the genetic material of cancer cells is different from that found in normal cells and, as cancer develops, this DNA becomes present in the blood.
This test cannot yet replace the conventional biopsy for initial cancer diagnosis, which is performed primarily for tumor monitoring and control, which also allows the choice of more effective treatments with fewer and reduced side effects.
Liquid biopsy makes it easier and more comfortable to track the cancer patient, reducing the need for biopsies that, although safe examinations, cause discomfort, need for anesthesia and risk of infections.Some of the cancers that can already be identified in this way include non-small cell lung cancer in addition to colorectal, pancreatic, metastatic, or thyroid melanoma, for example.
Liquid biopsy is also used to indicate the best medication for a particular type of cancer, to identify recurrence, and to indicate the need for complementary treatment after tumor removal, i.e. after the tumor has been removed, this test is requested.to see if there is still tumor DNA circulating in the body, which can be a sign of metastasis or recurrence.
However, in the absence of circulating tumor genetic material, the person does not need to undergo radiation therapy or complementary chemotherapy, which usually happens in order to reduce the risk of recurrence, and thus not be exposed to the side effects of this type of treatment..See what the side effects of chemotherapy are.
The liquid biopsy is performed by taking a sample of the patient’s blood, which will be analyzed in the laboratory using genetic tests capable of detecting the specific DNA of the tumor studied, in addition this test can be performed in conjunction with others, such as computed tomography scans. , MRI or other blood tests, which help monitor and indicate the best forms of treatment for each person. Learn about the main tests that help identify and confirm the different types of cancer.
Some of the main advantages of liquid biopsy over traditional biopsy include:
In addition, this test facilitates cancer monitoring and control, as well as helping to adjust treatment and anticipate the development of resistant tumor cells.