Hong Kong has one of the highest lung cancer incidence rates globally, even among non-smokers. Since early-stage lung cancer often presents no obvious symptoms, many patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, missing the best opportunity for timely care. Therefore, finding a more sensitive and early screening method is crucial for improving survival rates.

Circulating Tumor Cell (CTC) Testing: Detecting Lung Cancer Risk Earlier

Circulating Tumor Cell (CTC) testing is a non-invasive blood test that detects tumor cells in circulation before visible tumors form. Compared to traditional imaging techniques such as X-rays or CT scans, CTC testing identifies abnormalities at an earlier stage, enabling timely and personalized care intervention.

How CTC Testing Helps with Early Intervention?

1. Early Warning and Increased Screening for High-Risk Groups

• For high-risk individuals, such as those exposed to air pollution, non-smokers with a family history of lung cancer, CTC testing serves as a valuable regular screening tool.
• CTC testing can detect abnormalities before conventional imaging scans show any visible changes, improving early detection rates.

2. Monitoring Cancer Cell Changes to Guide Personalized Care

• CTC testing enables continuous monitoring of cancer cell fluctuations, providing insights into disease progression.
• It helps differentiate between benign and malignant changes, preventing unnecessary overtreatment or delayed intervention.

3. Guiding Targeted and Personalized Care Strategies

• CTC testing not only detects tumor cells but also analyzes specific genetic mutations and drug sensitivities, helping to tailor the most effective care approach.
• For diagnosed lung cancer patients, CTC testing helps assess the effectiveness of current care strategies and adjust treatments in real time.

Conclusion: CTC Testing Enhances Early and Precise Lung Cancer Intervention

In high-risk regions like Hong Kong, CTC testing provides an advanced tool for early lung cancer detection and precision care. Complementing traditional screening methods, CTC serves as a valuable pre-screening option for high-risk individuals and a dynamic monitoring tool for diagnosed patients, aiding in the formulation of more effective personalized care plans. As technology advances, CTC testing will continue to play an increasingly vital role in lung cancer management, offering earlier and more precise health interventions.

References

1. Alix-Panabières, C., & Pantel, K. (2014). Clinical applications of circulating tumor cells and circulating tumor DNA as liquid biopsy. Cancer Discovery, 4(6), 479-491. 
2. Cree, I. A., Uttley, L., Buckley Woods, H., et al. (2017). The evidence base for circulating tumour DNA blood-based biomarkers for the early detection of cancer: A systematic mapping review. BMC Cancer, 17, 697. 
3. Wang, J., Wang, K., Xu, J., et al. (2020). Circulating tumor cells as an independent prognostic factor in advanced non-small cell lung cancer: A meta-analysis. PLoS ONE, 15(1), e0226769. 

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for educational and reference purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. ALWAYS CONSULT ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE ABOUT YOUR MEDICAL CONDITION OR MEDICAL PROBLEM THAT YOU HAVE ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. The content of this article is not intended to recommend any specific test, treatment, or medication and should not be construed as such. If you develop symptoms or require medical assistance, please contact a healthcare professional promptly.