A Hot New Trend In Oncology: Blood Tests Over Invasive Biopsies
Researchers report that these "liquid tests" -- which are less painful and risky -- have proven to have results that agree with a tumor biopsy. In other news, a study shows that women who take an estrogen-suppressing drug for double the time lower their risk of their cancer returning; scientists say immunotherapy is untested in patients with autoimmune diseases; and a Minnesota cancer research center celebrates its expansion.
The New York Times:
‘Liquid’ Cancer Test Offers Hope For Alternative To Painful Biopsies
A blood test to detect cancer mutations produced results that generally agree with those of an invasive tumor biopsy, researchers reported, heralding a time when diagnosing cancer and monitoring its progression may become less painful and risky. The blood tests, known as liquid biopsies, represent one of the hottest trends in oncology. They take advantage of the fact that DNA fragments from tumors can be found in tiny amounts in the blood of patients with cancer. (Pollack, 6/4)
The New York Times:
Extending Estrogen Suppressor May Aid Breast Cancer Patients, Study Says
Women with early-stage breast cancer could benefit from taking an estrogen-suppressing drug for 10 years rather than the standard five, researchers reported here on Sunday, citing the results of a new study. In the study, postmenopausal women who took a drug known as an aromatase inhibitor for an additional five years lowered the risk of their cancer returning or of a new case of cancer occurring in the other breast. (Pollack, 6/5)
Reuters:
Cancer Treatment Untested In Many Patients With Immune Problems
The safety and effectiveness of a new cancer treatment known as immunotherapy is largely unknown in patients with autoimmune diseases, researchers say - and that might account for up to a quarter of individuals with lung cancer. In autoimmune diseases - such as rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis or psoriasis, for example - the immune system attacks the body. (Seaman, 6/4)
Star Tribune:
Austin's Hormel Institute Cancer Research Center Expands Again
A cancer research center in Austin, Minn., has doubled in size, making room for a 250-seat auditorium, 20 more labs and a massive microscope that takes up an entire room. (Ross 6/4)
