Integrated profiling of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) identified early molecular signatures associated with disease progression in treatment-naïve early-stage head and neck cancer.
Baseline ctDNA genomic alterations revealed tumor-associated mutations and molecular abnormalities that may indicate aggressive tumor biology.
Detection of circulating tumor cells provided complementary insights into tumor cell dissemination and metastatic potential in early-stage disease.
Combined analysis of genomic (ctDNA) and cellular (CTC) biomarkers offers a more comprehensive understanding of tumor dynamics compared with single-modality liquid biopsy.
Early molecular signatures detected through liquid biopsy may predict disease progression before clinical relapse or radiologic evidence.
The integrated ctDNA–CTC approach supports improved risk stratification and patient classification, enabling personalized treatment planning.
Longitudinal monitoring of these biomarkers may facilitate real-time surveillance of tumor evolution and treatment response.
Overall, dual liquid biopsy profiling using ctDNA and CTCs represents a powerful strategy for early detection, precision monitoring, and personalized management of head and neck cancer.
Read Abstract