Tumor DNA in Blood Reveals Lymphoma Progression

NIH | APRIL 19, 2015

Using an advanced genetic test, researchers were able to detect diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in blood serum before it could be seen on CT scans. The technique could improve disease monitoring and reduce the need for multiple CT scans, lowering both costs and exposure to radiation.

DLBCL is the most common type of lymphoma—cancer that arises in the lymphatic system, where infection-fighting cells are made. DLBCL is usually curable, but it recurs in up to 40% of patients and is then often incurable. Because of the risk of recurrence, patients are monitored for up to 5 years after disease remission.

Past studies have shown that tumor cells can be detected in blood and bone marrow by searching for tumor-specific gene sequences. However, DLBCL has fewer circulating tumor cells relative to many other cancers.

A research team tested next-generation sequencing to assess whether cell-free circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from DLBCL could be detected in blood serum and used to monitor the disease.

Among 107 patients who achieved complete remission, those who developed detectable ctDNA during surveillance were over 200 times more likely to have disease progression than those who had no detectable ctDNA.

The researchers also found that ctDNA monitoring could detect cancer recurrence a median of 3.5 months before clinical evidence of disease. In addition, the ctDNA test was able to identify patients at high risk of treatment failure during treatment, a strategy known as interim monitoring.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Molecule may impact Gaucher, Parkinson’s disease

Scientists identified a molecule that restores the activity of a dysfunctional enzyme tied to both Gaucher disease and Parkinson’s disease. These findings suggest a new avenue to explore for treating these disorders.

Scientists make white blood cells to alleviate pain, instead of producing it, during tissue inflammation

Researchers at the University of Granada lead a novel study in mice that shows that sigma‑1 receptor blockers cause white blood cells or leukocytes to relieve the pain felt when a tissue is inflamed.

Extreme temperatures could increase preterm birth

Extreme hot or cold temperatures during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth, according to study by researchers at the National Institutes of Health.

Allergy Drug Treats Hepatitis C in Mice

A common over-the-counter allergy drug lowered hepatitis C virus levels in infected mice.

Antibiotic Alternative Scores Well in Second Round of Swine Trials

ARS scientists are studying a natural antimicrobial enzyme as a possible alternative to antibiotics for promoting pig health and growth.

Circulating tumor DNA in blood can predict recurrence of the most common type of lymphoma

Measurement of circulating tumor DNA in blood can be used to detect disease recurrence in patients with a curable form of cancer known as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.