Early diagnosis remains one of main the factors influencing the patient's prognosis, having positive effects on their life expectancy. Imaging-related techniques are the eligible methods for HCC diagnosis (ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance), however they show some limitations in sensitivity and costs, they require specialized personnel, and a certain compliance from the patient is required. Certainly, it remains hard and non-cost effective the use these methods for a close surveillance over time.
In recent years, translational hepatic research studies has focused on the identification of circulating biomarkers (any measurable molecule of some biological or pathological condition that can be found in blood) as a potential tool for the early detection of cancer. The term “liquid Biopsy” refers to the analysis of circulating biomarkers to collect information about the presence of tumors and their molecular features. Some Liquid biopsy tests are already available for clinical use, however this is not the case for HCC, where more open questions should be still addressed before of any clinical application. At the Italian Liver Foundation (FIF) we identified some circulating molecules with high diagnostic and prognostic predictive potential that may find application in liquid biopsy tests. Actually, we are developing a multi-parametric liquid biopsy test that may increase the accuracy in the early identification of the disease, thus offering a significant improvement in the patients’ survival.
IL NOSTRO OBIETTIVO
Early cancer diagnosis
HOW
Ideas
Collaboration
Effort
Diagnose the disease by using a blood sample
Together with Hospitals and Universities, Nationwide and Worldwide
Of researchers, clinical doctors and nurses in the patient's care, sample collection and molecular analysis