Cancer Diagnostics

In the past, many tumor marker laboratory tests have not been sensitive enough for the very early detection of cancer. However, many of them have nonetheless proved useful in monitoring therapy, following the course of the tumor, and predicting prog­ nosis. Today, cancer may be viewed as a genetic disease with various specific chromo­ somal and nucleotide aberrations, such as mutations, deletions, gene amplification, gene rearrangements, and translocations occurring during the transformation of a nor­ mal cell into a malignant cell. The considerable advances in technology during the past several years have greatly enhanced our ability to detect human cancers in the very early stages of tumor forma­ tion. These technologies include: (1) nucleotide molecular assays (genomics); (2) proteomics (multiplex protein measurements); (3) DNA microarrays; and (4) bio­ informatics. Many of these technologies are already helping in the integration and use of multiple biomarkers for tumors. Although the individual biomarkers may reveal only limited information, the use of multiple biomarkers can help markedly elevate the diagnostic capabilities for early detection of tumors.

Advances in diagnostic technology during the past several years have significantly enhanced our ability to detect human cancers in the very early stages of tumor formation. In Cancer Diagnostics: Current and Future Trends, high-profile laboratory scientists and basic cancer researchers review those recent and emerging clinical laboratory tests that can help in the early detection, evaluation, and prediction of human tumors, and so permit more informed therapeutic decisions. Emphasizing the importance of molecular and genetic RNA/DNA tests that can detect persons at high risk for specific cancers, the authors explore these novel serological assays, cellular assays useful for anatomic pathology, and molecular and genetic assays. Highlights include a profile of genetic tests for the diagnosis of colon, lung, and pancreatic cancers and a discussion of the molecular microsatellite instability that is observed in many cancers and permits the diagnosis of particular cancers.
Informative and state-of-the-art, Cancer Diagnostics: Current and Future Trends thoroughly treats the best current methods for cancer diagnosis and monitoring, and points to a future in which early diagnosis and detection of cancer will become a reality.