ctDNA

Term: ctDNADefinition: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) refers to DNA fragments released into the bloodstream by tumor cells, which can be used as a non-invasive biomarker for cancer detection and monitoring.Phonetic Pronunciation: (sir-KYOO-lay-ting TOO-mur DNA)Origin: The term "ctDNA" is derived from the combination of "circulating," referring to substances in the bloodstream, and "tumor DNA," which specifies the source of the DNA fragments. The concept emerged with advancements in molecular biology and oncology, reflecting the growing understanding of cancer's systemic effects.Significance in Asbestos Context: In the context of asbestos-related diseases, ctDNA can be particularly valuable for early detection and monitoring of mesothelioma and other asbestos-induced cancers. Its non-invasive nature makes it a promising tool for regular screening and assessing treatment efficacy in patients exposed to asbestos.Example Sentence: Recent studies have shown that ctDNA levels can help predict the progression of mesothelioma in patients with a history of asbestos exposure.Related Terms: Biomarker, Liquid Biopsy, Mesothelioma, Non-Invasive Testing, Cancer MonitoringNotes: - ctDNA is not yet a standard diagnostic tool for asbestos-related diseases but is under active research. - Its use can complement traditional imaging and biopsy methods. - The sensitivity and specificity of ctDNA detection methods are still being improved.