Imperial College London researchers have introduced the world's first simple blood test that could aid in diagnosing patients with the deadliest form of brain cancer, potentially sparing them from undergoing invasive and highly risky surgical procedures.
It is the novel technique for glial tumours, notably glioblastoma (GBM), the predominant high-grade brain tumour in adults. This breakthrough introduces a non-invasive, cost-effective method crucial for early detection of brain tumours, thereby heralding significant improvements in patient care.
The TriNetra-Glio blood test functions by isolating tumour cells that have detached from the tumour and are circulating within the bloodstream. These isolated cells are subsequently stained and can be discerned under a microscope. This test transcends mere disease indication; it is a genuine diagnostic liquid biopsy. It detects intact circulating tumour cells from the blood, allowing for analysis to be conducted with the same cellular detail as an actual tissue sample.
The test has the potential to significantly impact patients with suspected high-grade gliomas, such as GBM, astrocytomas, and oligodendrogliomas, by enabling earlier diagnosis of their specific tumour type, expediting treatment, and potentially improving survival rates. Additionally, it may eliminate the necessity for surgical biopsies, thereby reducing the significant risks associated with such procedures, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions.
This groundbreaking technology enables the diagnosis of inaccessible tumours through a risk-free and patient-friendly blood test. Additionally, it may eliminate the necessity for surgical biopsies, thereby reducing the significant risks associated with such procedures, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions.
This advancement could expedite diagnosis, allowing surgeons to administer customised treatments based on biopsy results, ultimately improving patients' survival prospects.
Brain tumours cause more deaths in children and adults under 40 than any other cancer. It's crucial to find ways to diagnose them earlier and develop better treatments.
This groundbreaking research has the potential to result in earlier detection and better outcomes for individuals with brain tumours.
