Measurable residual disease (MRD)-testing in haematological and solid cancers
Junren Chen, Robert Peter Gale, Yu Hu, Yan Wen, Tiantian Wang, Wei Zhang
Abstract
There is considerable interest in and enthusiasm for quantitative tests for residual cancer cells in the context of cancer therapy, a concept referred to as measurable residual disease (MRD)-testing. However, an updated critical evaluation of using MRD-tests to predict cancer recurrence and to direct subsequent cancer therapy(ies) is needed. We review concepts underlying MRD-testing and results of studies of MRD-testing in haematological and solid cancers. Most important, we examine if there are any convincing data proving therapy decisions in someone with cancer should be guided by results of MRD-testing or a positive MRD-test result provides sufficient and meaningful lead time to intervene and substantially change clinical outcomes.