News From the Field
Tumor Cells in Blood May Signal Worse Prognosis in Head and Neck Cancer Patients

December 21, 2010

A new study suggests that the presence of tumor cells in the circulating blood of patients with squamous cell cancer of the head and neck might predict disease recurrence and reduced survival. An increased number of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) also correlates with a worse outcome. The findings of the on-going, prospective study suggest that CTCs might be a prognostic marker to help further individualize therapy. Currently, no prognostic blood test exists for this malignancy. Full Story

Source
Ohio State University Medical Center

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