Test Offers Early Detection of Melanomas and Other Cancers
University of Vermont
posted on 03/13/2008
A new blood and tissue test can detect metastatic cancer at an early and treatable stage.
Suggested Uses
Early detection of advanced melanomas.
Early detection of cancers of the breast, lung, ovary, colon, and pancreas.
Determining chemotherapy dosages and response to treatment.
Advantages
- Diagnostic test finds over 95% of advanced melanomas.
- Extreme sensitivity allows early detection & treatment.
- Could also be used for cancers of pancreas, ovary, lung, colon & breast.
- Quantifies cancer cells.
- May be used to monitor effectiveness of chemotherapy.
- Low cost to commercialize.
Detailed Description
Unprecedented Sensitivity
This noninvasive test detects over 95% of advanced melanomas and is up to 1,000-fold more sensitive than other testing methods, enabling it to detect very low levels of cancer.
Improves the Prognosis
The sensitivity of the test enables patients to start treatment at an early stage of their disease, thus improving the prognosis and potentially allowing them to receive lower and less toxic doses of chemotherapy.
A Versatile Test
The test could be used for the detection of cancers other than melanoma. These include cancer of the pancreas, ovary, lung, colon, and breast.
Quantitative Measurement
Rather than detect only the presence or absence of malignant cells, the test is quantitative. It yields measurement data for metastatic cancer cells that can be used in determining a patient’s treatment and monitoring individual response to therapy.
File Number: 262
Other Information:
Commercialization
We anticipate a low cost to develop and produce a commercial application of this technology. Entry into the heathcare market should be rapid as the technology does not directly involve a therapeutic intervention.
If commercialized by a medical laboratory, the test could be ordered by healthcare providers. The only specimen required would be a simple blood or tissue sample.
Next Steps
Clinical studies will determine the sensitivity and specificity of the test in patient populations.
This innovation currently is not available for online licensing. Please contact the case manager at University of Vermont for more information.
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