In this lesson, you will learn about the role of blood tests, a type of liquid biopsy, in detecting cancer. The lesson describes some common blood tests that may provide information on cancer, such as Complete Blood Count (CBC), circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). It covers how these tests can help detect cancer, assess treatment response and monitor for recurrence. You will also gain an understanding of common blood biomarkers for different cancers and the limitations of using blood tests alone for diagnosis. The lesson highlights emerging biomarker technologies and emphasizes the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and treatment guidance.
By the end of this infographic, readers should be able to:
- Describe at least three types of blood tests used for cancer detection.
- List at least three blood biomarkers associated with common cancer types.
- Name at least three types of cancer that can be detected through blood tests.
Written by: Leigh-Ann van Strijp,
Reviewed by: Karen Haas, Terry Hawrysh and Kyster Nanan
Graphics and Illustration: Designs that Cell