Blood test may spot lung cancer without a needle biopsy

NCT ID NCT04162678

Terminated Diagnosis Sponsor: University of Southern California Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether a blood test (called a fluid biopsy) could help diagnose lung cancer. Researchers collected blood samples from 51 people who were either scheduled for a lung biopsy or had recently had one. The goal was to see if the blood test could accurately detect cancer, potentially offering a less invasive way to screen for the disease. However, the trial was terminated early, so the findings are limited.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Liquid biopsy (blood test)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a simple blood test for lung cancer, making screening easier and less invasive.
What could go wrong: The trial was terminated early, so results are limited. It is still unclear if the blood test is accurate enough for widespread use.

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.

lung cancer lung carcinoma lung neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

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

LUNG CARCINOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center

Los Angeles, California, 90033, United States
USC / Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center

Los Angeles, California, 90033, United States

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