IMPACT OF CELL FREE DNA ON LUNG CANCER DIAGNOSTICS

Abstract

Traditionally, lung cancer is diagnosed using histological and imaging studies. However with a development of molecular research more biomarkers are found, which helps to classify tumours into molecular types. It enables to determine a treatment specific to each individual's tumour and achieve better outcome. However usually identification of biomarkers requires invasive procedures such as surgical excision, biopsy or a fine needle aspiration. While cell free DNA (cfDNA) detection and analysis requires minimally invasive procedure - “liquid biopsy”. cfDNA can be used as a sensitive and specific biomarker for early detection of cancer, to monitor tumour burden and to detect a minimal residual disease and therapy resistance. cfDNA reflects the whole tumour genome and tumor heterogeneity, which allows to plan a personalized treatment.