TRIAL DATA
Circulating tumor DNA testing after surgery predicts recurrence in stage III colon cancer — Journal of Clinical Oncology
Analysis from the phase III Alliance N0147 trial evaluated a tissue-free circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) assay in patients receiving FOLFOX-based adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery for stage III colon cancer. The study examined whether detecting ctDNA in blood samples after surgery could predict which patients would experience cancer recurrence. This "liquid biopsy" approach doesn't require analyzing the original tumor tissue, making it more accessible for monitoring patients after treatment.
What this means
If you've had surgery for stage III colon cancer, ctDNA testing may help your care team identify whether you're at higher risk for recurrence and need closer monitoring or different treatment strategies. Ask your oncologist whether ctDNA testing is available and appropriate for your follow-up care.