CTC test

[Ina3]

The doctor conducted CTCs test for my dad. According to the test my dad has 24 CTCs and the preferred number of CTCs is 5. His recommendation is to start Antiblastic therapy .

Have others done similar test and how the results were used? Will these 24 CTCs help in targeted therapy? Reading from articles CTCs hold great promise as biomarkers for the early diagnosis and treatment selection.

What about Antiblastic therapy? Is this smth that is recommended here in USA?

Shall we request to see what are these 24 CTCs? We have not received the list.

Greatly appreciate your guidance.

[SusieJo1948]

Yes I think you should ask for anything pertaining to his cancer. Blood tests Dr's reports trays. Anything that he's been thru with the cancer.They should give them to you that is part of his medical records. Where I live I go to medical records and tell them what I need and they give it to me at no cost it's your dad's right to have. His medical records and your own they belong to everyone and they should give them to you. If your dad's oncologist is not explaining it clear enough then find someone who will tell what they mean in your language so you know what they mean. If I get blood work or whatever other test results. Sorry I couldn't explain what that is. If you need to talk or ask questions. Everyone on here will help you it's a great bunch. susiejo1948

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer]

CTC or circulating tumor cells are also known as a liquid biopsy or blood biopsy. They have only been approved for use in EGFR+ patients only. Although studies are ongoing. All cancer therapies are antiblastic.

I applaud you for pursuing this type of inquiry. Patients and their caregivers who are active participants in their care tend to live longer and experience fewer medical mistakes.

[Ina3 in reply to Denzie]

Thank you Denzie. What I am trying to understand is it a good thing that he has 25 CTCs or bad thing? Some articles link it to poor survival. Thanks