Implementing the ESMO recommendations for the use of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) assays in routine clinical application/diagnostics

Abstract

Liquid biopsy (LB) represents an advanced, minimally invasive approach that elevates the precision of oncological decision-making by identifying tumor DNA in bodily fluids. However, despite numerous endorsements from international specialty societies and working groups, implementation of LB into routine care is lagging behind due to conceptual and methodological uncertainties. This concise mini review aims to help catalyzing the translation of LB into routine care by exploring key considerations for incorporating circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis into clinical practice. Addressing eight pertinent questions from the perspective of a molecular oncology laboratory, this review synthesizes insights from the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) recommendations and incorporates the latest findings from relevant literature, offering a comprehensive guide to the implementation of ctDNA assays.

Keywords

• liquid biopsy
• liquid profiling
• molecular diagnostics
• precision oncology
• recommendations implementing test strategies