The recurrence of an oropharyngeal tumor related to HPV infection can be diagnosed early with a “simple” and non-invasive blood test. This was supported by researchers from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute who, within the multidisciplinary Symposium on Head and Neck Cancers held in Phoenix, Arizona, presented the results of extensive research demonstrating how liquid biopsy can predict tumor return earlier than other methods in 72% of cases.
Tumors, so the liquid biopsy will facilitate access to clinical trials
by Mara Magistroni
Hpv and oropharyngeal tumor
HPV, or human papillomavirus, is believed to be responsible for the development of some cancers, not only in the genitals but also in the oropharynx. Among the people who are affected by the latter form, 15-25% develop a relapse after treatment (within 5 years). In short, the tumor comes back and often recurs as a disease spread to other areas besides the throat and neck. Relapses, to date, are diagnosed through imaging techniques or other diagnostic tests, but – the researchers underline – the controls are applied differently and with different frequency in relation to the context.
A spy in the blood
Although the analysis of circulating tumor DNA is a tool already used and which is proving useful in oncology, until now this methodology had never been applied to oropharyngeal cancer linked to HPv infection. The study by the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute therefore aims to evaluate whether the test can be an effective tool for the early diagnosis of relapses. In a retrospective analysis, the researchers looked at data from over a thousand patients who, after treatment of their primary tumor with surgery and radio and / or chemotherapy, underwent testing to assess whether it returned to be present in circulating blood. genetic material of the tumor.
Lung cancer, a blood test identifies who should be screened
by Barbara Orrico
After three months of standard therapies, 80 patients tested positive for circulating DNA over time: 21 out of 80 had already been diagnosed with relapse, while 59 had no other evidence of disease, or their disease status it was indeterminate. Furthermore, in 95% of cases, relapses were confirmed through imaging, biopsy or endoscopy investigations; in four patients, however, there was no evidence of disease other than blood tests, and these people are periodically subjected to both liquid biopsy and radiological surveillance.
Thyroid cancer, easier diagnosis with “combined” artificial intelligence
by Mara Magistroni
The important data – the researchers point out – is that in 72.4% of cases the positive test of the circulating tumor DNA was the first indicator of relapse. This tool could therefore become an effective means of surveillance in clinical practice. Detecting recurrent disease before imaging and other diagnostic techniques would mean being able to intervene early, to allow for the application of personalized treatment.
Image credits: Luiz Rogério Nunes on Unsplash