Gene mutation analysis as biomarker in thyroid cancer (V1.1/11.1.19)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Detection of tumour mutation and circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) as a biomarker of diagnosis and prognosis in early differentiated thyroid cancer.
IRAS ID
244553
Contact name
Dae Kim
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 6 days
Research summary
There are two major issues to address in the management of low-risk thyroid cancer. Firstly, the rapidly increasing health burden of long-term survivors requiring robust, cost effective, life-long follow up. This is particularly important in the growing population of patients where the only available blood biomarker of recurrence (Thyroglobulin) is not suitable. Secondly, optimisation of the decision-making process to provide the most suitable and effective first operation (either hemithyroidectomy and completion total thyroidectomy or upfront total thyroidectomy). Improvements in both aspects would provide better patient experience, quality of life and cost-savings for health service providers.
This is a two-part study utilising molecular gene testing to address these issues.
Part 1 – This part of the study aims to analyse archival thyroid cancer specimens (surplus to clinical need) after appropriate consent, to identify critical gene changes that predict more aggressive cancers. This could more accurately inform the decision-making process when deciding the extent of surgery, potentially saving many unnecessary procedures.
Part 2 – This part of the study aims to identify patient specific thyroid cancer markers in patient blood samples at different time points through the patient journey. Increased levels of these markers could signify the presence of remaining cancer and therefore alert the need for additional treatment.
REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/LO/0342
Date of REC Opinion
1 Mar 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion