Blood test could spot returning colon cancer months before scans
NCT ID NCT04084249
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a simple blood test that looks for tumor DNA can detect colorectal cancer coming back earlier than standard CT scans. About 359 people who had surgery for stage II or III colorectal cancer will be randomly assigned to either the blood test plus frequent PET/CT scans or standard follow-up. The goal is to see if the blood test helps more patients get curative treatment when the cancer returns.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- ctDNA blood test
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this approach could help detect cancer recurrence earlier and allow more patients to have surgery or other treatments that aim for a cure.
- What could go wrong
- This is a relatively early-stage study, and the blood test may not be accurate enough to replace standard scans. It also may not improve survival or quality of life.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Aalborg University Hospital
Aalborg, North Denmark, 9000, Denmark
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Aarhus University Hospital
Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
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Bispebjerg Hospital
Copenhagen, 2400, Denmark
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Gødstrup Hospital
Herning, Central Jutland, 7400, Denmark
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Herlev Hospital
Herlev, Capital Region of Denmark, 2730, Denmark
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Odense University Hospital
Odense, The Region of Southern Denmark, 5000, Denmark
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Regional Hospital Horsens
Horsens, Central Jutland, 8700, Denmark
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Regional Hospital Randers
Randers, Central Jutland, 8930, Denmark
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Regional Hospital Viborg
Viborg, 8800, Denmark
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Zealand University Hospital
Køge, 4600, Denmark
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