Clinical Utility of Circulating Tumour DNA (ctDNA) Analysis for Assessing Completeness of Primary Lesion Resection and Disease Stage in Patients with Melanoma: A Systematic Review
Blood tests tracking tumor DNA fragments can predict melanoma recurrence months before symptoms appear, helping doctors plan closer monitoring for high-risk patients.
This PRISMA systematic review of 14 studies (n=1,077) found that postoperative ctDNA clearance reliably predicts recurrence-free survival in melanoma, while persistent ctDNA signals precede clinical relapse by months. Study design heterogeneity and variable detection methods limit immediate clinical implementation; large standardized prospective trials are needed.
What the study was
- Study design
- Systematic review (PRISMA; 14 studies, n=1077)
- Population
- Melanoma patients undergoing surgical resection
- Sample size
- 1077
- Category
- Early Detection
- Maturity
- Validated
- Journal
- Medicina (Kaunas)
Why it surfaced
Well-powered systematic review consolidating ctDNA utility evidence in melanoma perioperative management; consistent cross-study signal for MRD/relapse prediction. Heterogeneity limits immediate implementation.
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