Blood tests represent a revolutionary approach in cancer care. It detects the presence of cancer cells by using minimally invasive methods to provide real-time insights, which increases the efficacy of cancer treatment. Cancer blood tests are used as a non-invasive approach to detect cancer cells, particularly circulating tumor cells (CTCs). At RGCC, we use blood tests known as liquid biopsies to track cancer and provide valuable insights for both patients and doctors dealing with cancer. Let’s explore how these tests have contributed to the advancement of cancer care!
Cancer differs from one individual to another; even the same type of cancer is different from another. But there are some personal indicators of each individual’s cancer. Circulating tumor cells (CTC)’s count, nature, or genetic makeup differs for each patient, and it reflects the real-time status of cancer for each specific individual. Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) circulate in the bloodstream. CTCs help track disease progression throughout the journey. Evaluating the CTCs can guide personalized treatment decisions for each patient.
A liquid biopsy is a blood test used in cancer care to detect CTCs. Unlike traditional biopsies, liquid biopsies use a blood sample to analyze markers indicating cancer. A small blood sample is collected and analyzed in the lab. The results help personalize a treatment to meet individual needs. Liquid biopsies are minimally invasive and provide comprehensive information about the status of cancer. It helps in the effective ongoing monitoring of cancer.
Advantages of cancer blood tests
1. Minimally invasive nature
Blood tests have an edge over traditional tissue biopsies due to their non-invasive nature. The test procedure is simple and quick, it only involves drawing a small sample of blood. It is more comfortable for the patient compared to traditional biopsies, where sample collection is risky.
2.Real-time monitoring
Blood tests assess the CTC levels at regular intervals to provide a real-time picture of the cancer status. This information helps measure the progression of cancer and response to the treatment in real-time. Continuous monitoring plays a crucial role in achieving remission and stopping recurrence early.
3.Detailed information
The information furnished by blood tests in cancer care involves the presence and characteristics of cancer cells, including their genetic makeup, immune system response, sensitivity or resistance to anti-cancer drugs and so on. This detailed and specific information is crucial for tailoring the treatment plans to the
individual needs. This specificity helps in effectively combating cancer.
4.Early detection
One of the key advantages of blood tests is that they can detect cancer at an earlier stage, often before symptoms appear. With the accuracy of information provided by blood tests, early detection of cancer cells leads to treatment success and overall positive outcomes.
Applications of CTC blood tests
1.Individualized profiles
The results of CTC blood tests are helpful in creating individualized treatment profiles. The profiles are based on the status of the patient’s cancer and show better prognosis. These profiles are tailored to how each unique cancer reacts to the same drugs in different patients. This individualized approach ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to the uniqueness of each cancer.
2.Ongoing monitoring
Blood tests to measure CTC counts are used to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatments and to explore alternative treatments for cancer. The decrease in the levels of CTC indicates that the treatment is working. If the results show an increase, adjustments to the treatment plan are made accordingly.
3. Early detection of recurrence
As the CTC blood tests are used as follow-up tests even after the cancer is in remission, the tests help detect cancer recurrence at an early stage. Regular testing catches any signs of cancer returning and enables prompt intervention.
4. Clinical decisions
With the data provided by the CTC blood test results, clinical decisions are made more objectively to fight cancer efficiently. The decisions made are informed choices made in consultation with the patients and their specific cancer. Clinical decisions are driven to increase positive outcomes and survival rates significantly.
5. Follow up
Blood tests are used for the follow-up process as they are quicker and easier compared to traditional biopsies. It helps keep a close watch on the patient’s condition post remission, any changes or cancer cells reemerging will be identified early and tracked.
To summarize, blood tests act as an indispensable tool, offering a highly specialized method for cancer monitoring and management. With the creation of effective, personalized treatment plans, blood tests for cancer allow patients and doctors to make informed decisions to achieve the best possible outcomes.
