Blood markers may reveal chemo response in just weeks

NCT ID NCT02872779

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University Hospital, Rouen Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at 74 people with metastatic colorectal cancer starting their first chemotherapy. Researchers took blood samples early in treatment to measure three markers: CEA, circulating tumor DNA, and total cell-free DNA. The goal was to see if early changes in these markers could predict whether the cancer would shrink after 3 months, potentially allowing doctors to adjust treatment much sooner.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a blood test that helps doctors quickly tell if chemotherapy is working, allowing them to switch treatments sooner and avoid unnecessary side effects.
What could go wrong: This is a small, observational study that is not testing a new treatment. The results may not be definitive enough to change standard care, and the blood markers might not reliably predict outcomes in all patients.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

colorectal adenocarcinoma colorectal cancer colorectal neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CIRCULATING MARKERS METASTATIC COLORECTAL CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Rouen University Hospital

Rouen, France

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