A new blood test pioneered by the Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at Imperial College London offers hope for diagnosing glioblastoma (GBM), the deadliest form of brain cancer, without invasive surgery.
The groundbreaking technique isolates circulating tumour cells from the blood, allowing for accurate diagnosis under a microscope. Led by Dr. Nelofer Syed and Mr. Kevin O’Neill, the study, published in the International Journal of Cancer, marks a significant advancement in brain tumour diagnostics. The TriNetra-Glio blood test shows promise in earlier detection and tailored treatment, potentially improving survival rates and eliminating the need for risky surgical biopsies. The research, funded by Datar Cancer Genetics, has garnered interest from the US FDA and may lead to larger-scale studies in the UK.
Patients like Steve Ackroyd, whose diagnosis was delayed, underscore the urgency for improved diagnostic tools and treatment options. Dan Knowles, CEO of Brain Tumour Research, emphasises the critical need for innovative approaches to combat GBM and other brain tumours, which claim the lives of more individuals under 40 in the UK than any other cancer.