Stool- and Blood-Based Molecular Tests in Screening for Colorectal Cancer: Ready for Prime Time?

Abstract

Purpose of Review

This article serves as a critical review and summary of the role of stool- and blood-based molecular tests for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening indexed in PubMed between 2011 and early 2017. In particular, we focus on assays approved for clinical use and recent findings on novel biomarkers. The biological rationale, clinical performance characteristics, and limitations of these tools are discussed.

Recent Findings

Novel miRNA markers and bacterial DNA markers have been reported and evaluated in case-controlled studies. The plasma-based SEPT9 test and the multi-target stool DNA test (mt-sDNA) have received approval for CRC screening and are available to patients. Mt-sDNA has demonstrated a high accuracy rate in detecting colorectal neoplasia.

Summary

Despite the proven benefits of CRC screening, a large percentage of the eligible population remains unscreened due to suboptimal screening compliance and the limitations of current modalities. The opportunity to improve CRC screening rates has driven research to develop novel screening approaches. Stool- and blood-based molecular tests have demonstrated significant potential for improving access to CRC screening.

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