Cancer detection

A test for cancer is being pioneered by researchers at Purdue University. The test is unique in that it does not require a blood sample: a laser is used to reveal and count circulating tumour cells in surface veins. This means the process is less invasive and can evaluate a much larger volume of blood.

In addition to being less invasive, the new detection method is able to evaluate a much larger volume of blood than what can be drawn from a patient for analysis, said Philip Low, Purdue's Ralph C. Corley Distinguished Professor of Chemistry.

‘In the initial stages of cancer, there are very few circulating tumour cells - cells that indicate the spread of cancer and initiate secondary tumour formation,’ Low said. ‘By increasing the volume of blood analysed, we improve the sensitivity of the test and allow for earlier diagnosis.’