Exact Sciences Unveils Blood Test for Early Liver Cancer Detection

Madison, Wisconsin — Exact Sciences announced new findings today demonstrating that its Oncoguard liver cancer blood test surpasses the traditional ultrasound method in detecting liver cancer. The data comes from the ALTUS study, the largest of its kind in the United States, involving over 3,000 participants.

The Oncoguard test shows a significant increase in sensitivity for detecting hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common form of liver cancer. According to the study, the test identifies three times more early-stage liver cancers compared to ultrasound. Specifically, the sensitivity for very early-stage cancer was reported at 64%, while ultrasound only achieved 9%. In terms of early-stage sensitivities, the Oncoguard test reached 77%, compared to ultrasound’s 36%.

Dr. Binu John, principal investigator for the ALTUS trial, noted that ultrasound surveillance has been the go-to standard for liver cancer detection for many years. He pointed out significant drawbacks, including poor image quality and inconsistent follow-up treatments, which can lead to missed diagnoses.

“A highly sensitive blood-based alternative like Oncoguard Liver is a game changer that could make liver cancer screening more accessible, equitable, and effective for millions of at-risk patients,” Dr. John stated in a release.

The findings are set to be presented next week at the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases meeting, and Exact Sciences plans to submit the results for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.