Best Practices and Research Advances in Thoracic Oncology: A Regional Series LATAM Course 1: Liquid Biopsy in Lung Cancer-Use of Liquid Biopsy in Early Stage

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Video Summary

Dr. Luis Corrales discusses the role of liquid biopsy in managing early-stage non-small cell lung cancer. Liquid biopsy, which detects circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and tumor cells via blood samples, offers easier and less invasive diagnostics than traditional tissue biopsies. Although earlier assays had reliability challenges, advancements have improved sensitivity significantly, detecting even minimal residual disease. Corrales notes that while liquid biopsy is becoming pivotal in practice, it is not yet a complete replacement for tissue biopsies, particularly in identifying driver mutations. Liquid biopsy aids in monitoring disease dynamics, assessing therapy resistance, and informing prognosis. Early-stage studies suggest its utility in post-surgery monitoring and determining the necessity of adjuvant therapy. Despite its promise, adoption varies globally, with challenges in access and assay specificity. Corrales emphasizes the need for more studies to leverage liquid biopsy capabilities in selecting therapies and enhancing patient surveillance.

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Luis Corrales, MD

Keywords

liquid biopsy

non-small cell lung cancer

circulating tumor DNA

diagnostics

therapy resistance

adjuvant therapy