What is liquid biopsy
Liquid biopsy is an advanced procedure that detects CTCs and ctDNA from body fluids such as blood to detect cancer, whereas biopsy is a technique where a tissue sample is excised and looked under the microscope to detect cancer,
Liquid biopsy in cancer
A liquid biopsy is a test where body fluids are analyzed to look for signs of cancer.As the tumor grows, Tumor cells and tumor cell DNA are released into the bloodstream. These are detected, to look for cancer cells. These molecules are released into the bloodstream. A liquid biopsy detects those fine pieces of CTCs and ctDNA and tells whether the patient suffers from cancer or not.
Liquid biopsy cancer is a diagnostic tool used to detect cancer.
Circulating Tumour Cells (CTCs): The full form includes circulating tumor cells, which are tumor cells that are released and a blood test can identify these cancer cells.
Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA): Cancer cells release DNA, called Circulating Tumour Cell DNA. These are DNA fragments from cancer cells. A DNA fragment from the tumor cell that is circulating in the blood DNA comprised of genetic information and when there is a mutation, it can lead to cancer. A mutation is a change in the genetic code of the DNA. Detection and studying cDNAs can aid in better treatment outcomes. For example, it can help in treatments such as Targeted Therapy.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a treatment option where certain drugs are used that target specific molecules in cancer cells. This in turn either stops the growth of cancer cells or slows their growth.
The difference between a biopsy and a liquid biopsy
Biopsy is invasive where a tissue sample is excised and looked under a microscope.
Liquid biopsy is non-invasive, a kind of blood test, an indirect method to detect cancer
Biopsy is a traditional procedure whereas liquid biopsy is an advanced procedure.
FAQs
Which type of cancer uses liquid biopsy?
Cancers such as breast cancer, small cell lung cancer, and prostate cancer use liquid biopsy