Great question! The part of a blood test that looks for cell mutations is called a liquid biopsy. This test analyzes tiny fragments of tumor DNA that circulate through the bloodstream.
Here's what it can detect:
- Specific genetic mutations linked to lung cancer (like EGFR, ALK, BRAF, ROS1)
- Other abnormalities in the Show Full Answer
Great question! The part of a blood test that looks for cell mutations is called a liquid biopsy. This test analyzes tiny fragments of tumor DNA that circulate through the bloodstream.
Here's what it can detect:
- Specific genetic mutations linked to lung cancer (like EGFR, ALK, BRAF, ROS1)
- Other abnormalities in the genetic profile of your cancer This information helps your care team figure out whether targeted therapy options might work well for you. Targeted therapies are treatments designed to block the specific mutated proteins driving your cancer's growth.
It's worth asking your doctor if a liquid biopsy has been done or is recommended as part of your care plan.
July 11