Circulating Tumor DNA Analysis: Practical Laboratory Insights for Clinicians.

Abstract

Liquid biopsies provide a non-invasive way to assess cancer patients. One of the most popular and promising sources is circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA). Early cancer identification, treatment response evaluation, prognosis, and prognostic assessments can all benefit from the detection of tumor DNA among ccfDNA (ctDNA). Clinicians and laboratory scientists work together to provide analyses that can improve patient care. Similar to how laboratory scientists should be aware of the clinical requirements in order to deliver pertinent analyses, it is crucial that doctors understand the fundamental ideas and analyses underlying ctDNA results as their application approaches clinical practice. In this Perspective, we outline the entire ctDNA analysis process, from preanalytical standards to reporting and analysis of results, and we point out several crucial aspects that must be taken into consideration when applying them to clinical practice.