Early detection of mesothelioma is now possible with certain blood tests that are used to discover mesothelioma in people who have been exposed to asbestos. These distinctive tests work by helping identify elevated biomarkers, which are molecules that indicate normal or abnormal processes taking place in your body. Per Caris Life Sciences, “various types of molecules, such as DNA (genes), proteins or hormones, can serve as biomarkers since they all indicate something about your health. Biomarkers may be produced by the cancer tissue itself or by other cells in the body in response to cancer.”
Several blood tests show promise in helping detect mesothelioma cancer before it advances into the late stages. These tests help detect elevated blood levels of substances such as fibulib-3, osteopontin, and soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRPs). These substances make mesothelioma more likely. Some of the most promising blood tests for mesothelioma are:
-MESOMARK
-Human MPF Elisa Kit
-Fibulin-3 Test
-SOMAmer
MESOMARK is the world’s first serum-based biomarker sensitive for mesothelioma. Developed by Fujirebio Diagnostics, Inc., the blood test measures the amount of Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides (SMRP) present in the bloodstream. Per Fujirebio, this test can help physicians “routinely monitor individuals with the greatest risk of developing mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure.” If mesothelioma develops, doctors can use the test to help determine how well patient’s respond to treatment.
Human MPF Elisa Kit measures megakaryocyte potentiating factor (MPF), which is a protein encoded in the mesothelin (MSLN) gene.
Fibulin-3 Test is a new biomarker for malignant mesothelioma (MM). Research shows that testing this biomarker could assist in early detection of malignant mesothelioma. In studies, the test was also effective in detecting the progression of mesothelioma.
SOMAmer (Slow Off-rate Modified Aptamer) was shown to have “excellent” diagnostic accuracy in case-control settings. The test measures a panel of 13 biomarkers to detect mesothelioma.
Other tests that may be useful include CA-125 (CTCA), which could help detect more than a dozen types of cancer, including peritoneal mesothelioma, and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG), which has been used to estimate the DNA damage in humans after exposure to cancer-causing agents, such as asbestos fibers, tobacco smoke, heavy metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Interleukine-6 (IL-6), osteopontin, and vascular endothelial growth factor-beta (VEGF-B) are other options.
If you have been exposed to asbestos, talk to your doctor about the different types of blood tests for mesothelioma. Remember, early detection could save your life.
Sources
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