A simple blood test called liquid biopsy is a new, less invasive way to learn more about breast cancer and other cancers. Researchers and doctors look for tiny pieces of cancer DNA in the blood to determine how the cancer is changing over time. In research studies and clinical trials, liquid biopsies are helping doctors track how well treatments are working and spot signs that the cancer may return earlier. Ultimately, this novel technology may become an important tool for cancer doctors in diagnosing and es, treatmenting cancer decisions, and determining how well a cancer is responding to therapies. Ongoing clinical trials will help move liquid biopsies into clinical care, making them available to all patients.
Read about the potential of liquid biopsies:
- BreastCancer.org: Liquid Biopsy: What is it and When is it Used in Breast Cancer?
- Living Beyond Breast Cancer.org: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) tests
- Susan G. Komen.org: Where Liquid Biopsy Fits into Cancer Care
Last Modified on July 14, 2026