Circulating tumor DNA can be a bit mystifying. A number of clinical trials are being initiated (check out the current listings here) and there are questions about how to use these assays in clinical management now. Thanks to Colontown University for hosting a Doc Talk on this, where a number of important topics are covered, including minimal residual disease, single tests vs multiple tests, recent updates from GI ASCO conference, a number of ongoing clinical trials, and the INTERCEPT program ongoing at MD Anderson.
In this Doc Talk, I discuss a number of frequently asked questions, including:
- How to interpret test results?
- Quick primer on survival curves
- Interval between ctDNA positivity & results on imaging
- Can a ctDNA+ status change without treatment?
- What does negative ctDNA test status over time mean?
- Can the ctDNA+ test tell where the cancer is hiding?
- I’m ctDNA+, should I start the next line treatment now?
- Is ctDNA MRD testing useful with resected peritoneal disease?
Make sure to check out the other amazing resources at Colontown University, including other Doc Talks hosted by Manju George. (check out a a related Doc Talk on ctDNA by Dr. Stacey Cohen)
