Colorectal Cancer Biomarkers
What is a biomarker?
Biomarkers, short for biological markers or molecular markers, have characteristics that enable them to be measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacologic responses to a therapeutic intervention. Biomarkers include DNA, proteins, and genetic mutations found in blood, tissue, or other body fluids. Your “biomarker profile” can help you and your doctor personalize your treatment.
Biomarkers for colorectal cancer are used for diagnosis, progression, prognosis, and for treatment. Some biomarkers have both a prognostic and a predictive value.
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Diagnostic biomarkers detect the disease
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Prognostic biomarkers are associated with a clinical outcome regardless of the treatment received
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Predictive biomarkers can predict the benefit or lack of benefit of a treatment
Biomarkers 101
Learn the basics about biomarkers so that you are fully informed on your journey.
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