Been reading a lot about the increasing use of ctDNA tests (liquid biopsies like Signatera, Guardant Reveal) for detecting Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) after curative-intent treatment for Stage 2/3 CRC, or for surveillance. The potential for earlier recurrence detection than scans seems huge, but I also imagine it adds significant anxiety. For those whose oncologists are using it, or who’ve looked into it: What are your thoughts? Experiences? Is it becoming standard?
For me, yes, the potential benefit outweighs the anxiety, but it’s a close call some days! The plan if positive is immediate, high-res scans (PET/CT, maybe MRI) to try and locate the source, followed by discussion of treatment (likely chemo, possibly targeted therapy depending on what’s found). Knowing there is a plan helps manage the ‘what if’.
Wow, Christopher. Thanks for sharing the plan detail too. The waiting sounds rough, but having that clear “if positive, then X” path must help structure the anxiety somewhat. My fear of recurrence is high; part of me wants this test, part of me dreads another thing to worry about.