Blood Test Possible Biomarker for Mesothelioma
September 29th, 2008 watermanResearch scientists have been exploring the use of biomarkers as diagnostic tools to detect malignant pleural mesothelioma. A biomarker is a specific physical trait used to measure the effects or progress of a disease. A validated biomarker can diagnose the presence of a disease and perhaps aid in its treatment. A recent study shows that two new tests offer potential markers for mesothelioma.
Osteopontin (OPN) is a protein that can be found in circulating blood and is associated with cancers. Three subject groups were studied, including 69 subjects with asbestos-related pulmonary disease, 76 mesothelioma subjects and 45 healthy subjects with no known asbestos exposure.
OPN levels were significantly higher in people diagnosed with mesothelioma as compared to those with pulmonary plaques and fibrosis. The osteopontin levels had an accuracy of 85.5% in identifying those with mesothelioma compared to those with benign lung conditions.
Researchers concluded that serum osteopontin levels could be used to identify those with pleural mesothelioma from those who do not have cancer although had been exposed to asbestos.
A biomarker for monitoring mesothelioma, called MESOMARK, is a simple blood test that utilizes an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay format to measure the soluble mesothelin-related proteins in the blood of certain mesothelioma patients.
Doctors have used the registered MESOMARK test in conjunction with PET/CT scans to monitor the progression of disease and management of treatment options. The MESOMARK can only be given in designated laboratories. For information go to http://www.fdi.com/.
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