In this edition of ReCent Medical News, Monique Esterhuizen reflects on how genomics enable us to “look under the hood” of a tumor and develop the most suitable personalized treatment. Furthermore she explores what insurers need to know about these promising cancer treatments.
Dr. Achim Regenauer discusses how far we are along the road to having multi-cancer early detection tests – essentially powerful liquid biopsies – in the clinical setting. It appears that this is much closer than previously assumed, and that these tests will complement, rather than replace, current detection options.
The rapid development of liquid biopsy technology, along with its potential for multiple clinical applications, has garnered significant excitement. RGA explores the challenges and concerns, as well as the opportunities ahead.
RGA’s consultant oncologist, Dr. Radi Counsell, discusses the ways liquid biopsies will change the face of cancer care, from screening and diagnosis to treatment monitoring and surveillance of survivors. Dr. Counsell also examines underwriting and claims adjudication implications of this emerging technology.
Is science fiction becoming science fact? Liquid biopsies are a new class of blood- (or other bodily fluid-based) tests that can reveal direct evidence of cancer and are far less invasive than traditional biopsies. RGA's Dr. Daniel Zimmerman explores linkages between advances in genetics and this new technology. He also investigates limitations, potential mortality and morbidity impacts, and insurance implications.
Cancerous tumors shed whole cells or tiny bits of DNA and other genetic material into the bloodstream and other bodily fluids. This allows clinicians to potentially analyze blood samples to detect a tumor's unique mutations and offer a personalized treatment regimen, all without an invasive tissue biopsy.
Liquid biopsies are noninvasive tests that could potentially lead to early detection of cancer by identifying the genetic material cancerous tumors shed into the bloodstream and other bodily fluids. It is now possible to test for biomarkers such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). As these tests gain a foothold in clinical practice, insurance professionals must understand liquid biopsies and the implications for underwriting and product development.