Colorectal
Signal score, how each part rates
ActionabilityPrevalenceStakesEvidence strengthNovelty
See the full rubric →Liquid Biopsies for Cancer: A Translational Science Review.
Clinical takeawayConsider ctDNA testing for colorectal cancer patients to detect molecular relapse earlier than imaging and to identify molecular variants for therapy selection. However, optimal timing of testing and management of positive results in the absence of imaging abnormalities remain unresolved; implementation should await clarity through guidelines or institutional protocols.
What it foundctDNA detects colorectal cancer molecular relapse 8.7 months before standard imaging (median 5.5 vs 14.2 months; P<0.001), and higher ctDNA levels predict recurrence across cancers (e.g., urothelial carcinoma HR 20.69 for worse disease-free survival; 95% CI 9.63-44.43)
ContextctDNA is emerging as an early recurrence marker with strong prognostic correlation. This review synthesizes evidence that molecular relapse detection via ctDNA precedes imaging by months, supporting earlier intervention potential. However, optimal testing intervals, cost-effectiveness, and management of early-positive asymptomatic patients remain unresolved, limiting routine adoption.
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Mezzanotte-Sharpe J … Park BH · JAMA · IF 63.1 · PubMed ↗