Liquid Biopsy Colon Cancer Test
Short Name: Liquid Biopsy Colon
Also known as: ctDNA Colon Cancer Test, Circulating Tumor DNA Test, Liquid Biopsy for Colorectal Cancer
Liquid Biopsy Colon Cancer Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹33,000. Uses Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) on Blood samples. Results in Results are typically available within 21 working days after the sample reaches the laboratory.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the Liquid Biopsy Colon Cancer Test is to detect the presence of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in the bloodstream, which is shed by cancer cells. This test serves multiple clinical purposes: 1) Early detection of colon cancer in individuals presenting with symptoms or at high risk. 2) Monitoring treatment efficacy in patients undergoing chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. 3) Detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) after surgical resection, indicating the need for adjuvant therapy. 4) Identification of specific genetic mutations (e.g., KRAS, NRAS, BRAF) that guide targeted therapy selection. 5) Tracking the emergence of resistance mutations during treatment, allowing timely modification of therapeutic strategies. 6) Providing a non-invasive alternative for patients who cannot undergo tissue biopsy due to medical contraindications or tumor inaccessibility. By analyzing ctDNA, clinicians can obtain real-time molecular information about the tumor, facilitating personalized and dynamic cancer management.
- Test Code
- 6274
- CPT Code
- 81479
- ICD Code
- C18.9
- Price
- ₹33,000
- Sample Type
- Blood
- Result Time
- Results are typically available within 21 working days after the sample reaches the laboratory.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. However, it is recommended to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially anticoagulants. Fasting is not necessary for this test.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. The procedure is quick and typically takes less than five minutes. You may feel a slight prick when the needle is inserted.
Report Delivery
After the blood draw, you can resume normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions. In rare cases, minor bruising or soreness at the puncture site may occur, which resolves on its own.
Timeline: Results are typically available within 21 working days after the sample reaches the laboratory.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the Liquid Biopsy Colon Cancer Test is to detect the presence of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in the bloodstream, which is shed by cancer cells. This test serves multiple clinical purposes: 1) Early detection of colon cancer in individuals presenting with symptoms or at high risk. 2) Monitoring treatment efficacy in patients undergoing chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. 3) Detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) after surgical resection, indicating the need for adjuvant therapy. 4) Identification of specific genetic mutations (e.g., KRAS, NRAS, BRAF) that guide targeted therapy selection. 5) Tracking the emergence of resistance mutations during treatment, allowing timely modification of therapeutic strategies. 6) Providing a non-invasive alternative for patients who cannot undergo tissue biopsy due to medical contraindications or tumor inaccessibility. By analyzing ctDNA, clinicians can obtain real-time molecular information about the tumor, facilitating personalized and dynamic cancer management.
How to Prepare
- Use Streck tube for blood collection to preserve ctDNA
- Ensure proper mixing of blood with preservative by inverting tube 8-10 times
- Do not refrigerate or freeze the sample
- Transport sample to laboratory at ambient temperature within 24 hours
- Avoid hemolysis during collection
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"Liquid biopsy is a breakthrough for early detection and monitoring of colon cancer. It offers a non-invasive alternative to tissue biopsy, enabling timely intervention and personalized treatment strategies."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted sample
- Incorrect tube used
- Sample not reaching laboratory within 24 hours
- Insufficient blood volume
- Sample exposed to extreme temperatures
Understanding Your Results
No circulating tumor DNA found in the blood sample. This may indicate absence of cancer or low tumor burden. However, a negative result does not completely rule out cancer, especially in early stages.
Presence of KRAS mutation suggests the tumor may not respond to anti-EGFR therapies (e.g., cetuximab, panitumumab). Alternative treatment options should be considered.
BRAF V600E mutation is associated with aggressive disease and poor prognosis. Targeted therapy with BRAF inhibitors (e.g., encorafenib) combined with EGFR inhibitors may be considered.
High microsatellite instability indicates a potential benefit from immunotherapy (e.g., pembrolizumab, nivolumab). This finding is also associated with Lynch syndrome, warranting genetic counseling.
Cancer-related DNA is present, but no targetable mutations were identified. Standard chemotherapy may be recommended, and further testing may be needed.
Consult your oncologist if you have symptoms suggestive of colon cancer, such as persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. Also, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or have been diagnosed with colon cancer and need monitoring, discuss the appropriateness of liquid biopsy with your doctor.
Limitations
- ⚠May not detect all types of genetic alterations
- ⚠Sensitivity depends on tumor burden and stage
- ⚠Cannot provide information on tumor location or histology
- ⚠Results may be negative in early-stage or low-burden disease
- ⚠Requires specialized laboratory equipment and expertise
- ⚠Not a substitute for tissue biopsy in all cases
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising at the puncture site
- ●Dizziness or fainting during blood draw
- ●Infection (rare, if proper hygiene is not maintained)
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent blood transfusion may dilute ctDNA concentration
- ●Active inflammatory conditions may cause false positives
- ●Sample hemolysis or improper storage can degrade DNA
- ●Concurrent chemotherapy may affect ctDNA levels
- ●Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) can lead to false positives
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Liquid Biopsy Colon Cancer Test | Liquid Biopsy | Tissue Biopsy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Liquid Biopsy Colon Cancer Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a liquid biopsy for colon cancer?
How is the liquid biopsy colon cancer test performed?
What is the cost of the liquid biopsy colon cancer test in India?
Is fasting required for the liquid biopsy colon cancer test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can liquid biopsy replace a colonoscopy?
What mutations does the test detect?
Is the liquid biopsy test covered by insurance?
Who should consider this test?
Are there any risks associated with the test?
Can the test be done at home?
What does a negative result mean?
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