Detecting Colorectal Cancer with a Blood Test
Author Information
Author(s): Grützmann Robert, Molnar Bela, Pilarsky Christian, Habermann Jens K., Schlag Peter M., Saeger Hans D., Miehlke Stephan, Stolz Thomas, Model Fabian, Roblick Uwe J., Bruch Hans-Peter, Koch Rainer, Liebenberg Volker, deVos Theo, Song Xiaoling, Day Robert H., Sledziewski Andrew Z., Lofton-Day Catherine
Primary Institution: University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden
Hypothesis
Can a blood-based test effectively detect colorectal cancer through DNA methylation analysis?
Conclusion
The SEPT9 DNA methylation assay is a promising method for detecting all stages of colorectal cancer with high specificity and sensitivity.
Supporting Evidence
- The SEPT9 assay detected 120 out of 252 colorectal cancers in the training study.
- In the test study, the assay identified 73 out of 126 colorectal cancers.
- The assay achieved a sensitivity of 72% and specificity of 90% in the testing set.
- Detection rates for polyps larger than 1 cm were approximately 20%.
- The assay showed low positive rates for other cancers and non-cancerous conditions.
Takeaway
Researchers created a blood test that can find colorectal cancer by looking for specific DNA changes, making it easier for people to get screened.
Methodology
The study involved two case-control studies using a PCR assay to analyze SEPT9 hypermethylation in plasma samples.
Potential Biases
The majority of CRC patients were male, and the test set patients were slightly older than those in the training set.
Limitations
Some biases in patient demographics and the specificity of the test in non-colorectal cancer patients were not fully determined.
Participant Demographics
Participants were predominantly over 40 years old, with a preference for those aged 50 and older.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.002
Confidence Interval
[95% CI]
Statistical Significance
p<0.002
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website