“The hope for many cancer patients who undergo surgery is that they will recover after the tumor is removed. The question that remains is whether we managed to remove everything, whether the surgery was performed in time and, therefore, before the tumor cells spread outside the primary tumor, sowing invisible metastases, or whether part of the microscopic neoplasm was left behind. the original site of the cancer. To answer this question we are increasingly turning to the analysis of circulating tumor DNA,” explains Isaac Garcia-Murillas, of the Institute of Cancer Research in London.
Analysis of circulating tumor DNA is a relatively recent advance in diagnostic technology based on the natural tumor cycle. As cancer cells grow and die, they release fragments of their DNA into the bloodstream. This DNA, which contains the tumor’s genetic information, circulates through the body and can be detected with specific tests.Thanks to the analysis of circulating tumor DNA, it is possible to identify genetic mutations through a simple blood sample, offering a less invasive option to conventional biopsies, which require the extraction of tissue directly from the tumor. “Finding circulating tumor DNA means that tumor cells are still growing and dying, somewhere in the body, even at low levels,” adds Garcia-Murillas. The question is: what do we do next?
“If a patient has detectable tumor DNA in circulation after initial treatment with curative intent and/or surgery,the question is no longer whether the cancer will return but when,” continues the expert. “The power of this approach is undeniable, but the question is how to use it in the daily management of patients. There are still many questions to answer before we can safely use circulating tumor DNA to guide patient treatment,” he concludes, pointing to ongoing research as a solution to these questions.
The potential use of biomarkers that can be implemented as diagnostic tests in clinical practice is one of the topics that specialists from different countries have addressed during the Envision Summit 2024, the flagship annual scientific meeting of the SOLTI clinical research group, was held in Madrid later this month. The meeting was coordinated by Dr. Mafalda Oliveira, president of SOLTI and medical oncologist at the Vall d’Hebron Hospital and VHIO, and by Juan Manuel Ferrero, scientific director of SOLTI. Dr. David Cescon, from the Princess Margaret Cancer Center in toronto, also attended.
Innovative drugs
New antibody-drug conjugates directed at different targets have demonstrated benefits in metastatic breast cancer. Conversely, the combination of immunotherapy with neoadjuvant chemotherapy has emerged as the treatment of choice for early triple-negative breast cancer, as it has been shown to improve the survival of these patients. Additionally, in 2024, funding was approved for new indications for these drugs, specifically satituzumab govitecan for patients with hormonal-type breast cancer and trastuzumab deruxtecan for patients with breast cancer and low expression of the HER2 protein.In the latter case, studies have demonstrated, in parallel this year, the benefit of this treatment beyond this approved indication, with the idea of expanding the number of women who can benefit from this therapy. Laura Clavijo
How can patients best prepare for their follow-up care after cancer surgery?
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, everyone, to another edition of our expert interview series. Today, we’re diving deep into a crucial aspect of cancer treatment — surgical recovery. Joining us is Dr. Sarah Thompson,an oncological surgeon with over a decade of experience. Dr. Thompson,thank you for being hear.
Dr. Sarah Thompson (DST): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this vital subject.
TNE: Let’s jump right in. For many patients, undergoing surgery is a significant milestone in their cancer journey. Can you explain what happens during recovery after tumor removal?
DST: Absolutely. After tumor removal, patients hope for a full recovery, which typically includes healing from teh surgery itself and monitoring to ensure that all cancerous cells have been eliminated. Recovery can vary depending on the patient, the tumor’s nature, and the surgical procedure involved.
TNE: That’s insightful. one common concern for patients is whether the surgeon successfully removed all of the cancer. What factors play into that uncertainty?
DST: That’s a critical question. Several factors come into play, including the tumor’s size, location, and type. the margins of the removed tissue,which indicate whether any cancerous cells remain,are also essential. Ensuring clean margins is vital for a better prognosis.
TNE: So, would you say that the post-surgery pathology report is one of the most significant tools for determining a patient’s next steps?
DST: Exactly. The pathology report helps us understand if the tumor was entirely excised. If margins are clear, patients may need less aggressive follow-up. However, close monitoring or additional treatments may be necessary if cancerous cells are still present.
TNE: Fascinating! Can you elaborate on the role of follow-up care in the recovery process?
DST: Follow-up care is essential for ongoing health. It typically includes regular check-ups,imaging tests,and sometimes blood tests to monitor for recurrence. Early detection of any changes can drastically influence treatment options and outcomes.
TNE: Given the advancements in medicine,are there new technologies or techniques that are improving surgical outcomes and recovery for cancer patients?
DST: Yes,absolutely. Innovations like robotic-assisted surgeries offer greater precision and may lead to less postoperative pain and quicker recovery times. Additionally, real-time imaging during surgery can help ensure that we are removing all cancerous tissue.
TNE: What advice would you give to patients and their families navigating this post-surgery period?
DST: It’s essential to communicate openly with healthcare providers. Patients should discuss their concerns, symptoms, and any side effects they experience. Emotional support plays a huge role too, as recovering from cancer can be just as much about mental health as it is about physical healing.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for breaking this down for us. Your expertise provides valuable insights into what cancer patients can expect post-surgery and how they can advocate for their health.
DST: Thank you for having me! It’s crucial to keep thes conversations going. Knowledge is a powerful tool in the battle against cancer.
TNE: Indeed it is! And to our readers, remember that understanding the recovery process is essential.Stay informed, ask questions, and take an active role in your health. Until next time!
