We have witnessed a revolutionary growth in clinical research over the past decade. A new dimension has been reached in cancer research and its management, where more focus is given to minimally invasive techniques like liquid biopsy for the detection and treatment. It is used to diagnose molecular resistance to targeted therapy in patients with lung cancer. There are a lot of potential benefits of having a liquid biopsy, and it also detects cancer earlier than other methods. And the cost-benefit of having a liquid biopsy is still being evaluated in terms of Clinical utility, accessibility, and absorption, as well as in regulatory and reimbursement policies.
What is a Liquid Biopsy test?
Liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive approach that is used to obtain complete information of tumor biology from circulating cancer cells, tumor-derived cell-free DNA (cfDNA), or other analytes in body fluids. This technique is employed majorly for therapeutic guidance when tissue acquisition is impossible or when the specimen is inadequate and currently, it is also being used in the context of screening diagnosis and surveillance of the tumor.
Cost Breakdown and Economic Evaluation
In India Liquid Biopsy Cost is mainly charged with the range between 25,000 to 2,50,0000 Rs depending upon the type of genetic analysis. On an average Rs. 50,000 is the rational amount to be paid for this test which is significantly less than the traditional diagnostic procedure.
The breakdown of costs can be estimated through the type of test to be done including DNA analysis and circulating tumor analysis as well as through the lab and location and all sorts of clinical applications used for the test. It could be an expensive test for middle class people but its accuracy makes it one of the best clinical procedures for the diagnosis of cancer among cancer patients.
Is the investment in Liquid Biopsy justified?
Liquid biopsies are easier to perform than tissue biopsies and are virtually non-invasive to the patient, which makes liquid biopsies have the potential for continuous monitoring of tumor progression. Investment in liquid biopsy is justified due to its benefits in cancer management as well as for its personalized treatment and monitoring of treatment response. The liquid biopsy test is now available in numerous labs in India, and the biopsy tests in India vary from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 2,50,000.
Final Thoughts
Due to its high cost, Liquid Biopsy may not be affordable in India for the lower middle class. But if the cost is being reduced to a decent, affordable amount, then it could be a significant and cost-effective strategy for colorectal cancer treatment. As it is one of the rapidly evolving technologies with the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment. They offer a lot of advantages, but it could be better and aligned to patients if the cost of this test is reduced by a significant amount. Then this liquid biopsy would be a revolution in the clinical cancer diagnostic mechanism.
