Blood Test May Tailor Better Breast Cancer Treatment

A study by Research scientists at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found blood-based testing may help guide breast cancer treatment decisions in women over 70.  By analyzing blood samples for circulating tumor DNA called ctDNA—small fragments of genetic material shed by cancer cells—researchers could decide whether or not surgery or radiation would improve outcomes for patients.  80% of patients reported that the ctDNA test results help them to feel more informed about treatment options.