Each person’s colorectal cancer (CRC) is unique
Did you know even among people with the same type of cancer, such as CRC, their cancer cells can have different biomarkers?
Cancer biomarkers are genes, proteins, or other substances that can reveal important details about a person’s cancer.
What are some biomarkers in CRC?
Key biomarkers and their prevalence in CRC
10% of rectal cancers
How is biomarker testing done?
The gold standard for biomarker testing is lab analysis of cancer cells from a sample of the tumor tissue.
But some patients may not be able to have a sample of tumor tissue removed, due to the location of their tumors. Others may have health conditions that prevent them from undergoing the procedure. That’s where “liquid biopsies” can help.
Liquid biopsies are another way to test for biomarkers
This approach relies on analyzing bits of tumor material found in bodily fluids such as blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, or saliva. In most cases, the procedure for collecting a liquid sample is less invasive and more easily repeatable than removing a tissue sample. For CRC, liquid biopsies usually involve blood samples.
Liquid biopsies can complement or, in some cases, serve as an alternative to a tissue sample. They reveal some of the same information as tissue samples.
Biomarker testing helps guide treatment for CRC
When a patient is diagnosed with colorectal cancer, it’s important to test for biomarkers as soon as possible. Early biomarker testing can show doctors how the cancer may progress over time and what treatments may be appropriate for it.
Biomarkers can inform if certain cancer therapies matching a patient’s biomarker may be available.
If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, remember to ACT
A.C.T. stands for:
- Ask about biomarker testing
- Confirm your biomarker status with your doctor
- Take the next steps with your health care team
For more resources, visit CRCBiomarkers.com.
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