Blood test may replace painful biopsies for melanoma patients
NCT ID NCT02862743
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study looked at whether a simple blood sample can detect genetic mutations in patients with advanced melanoma. Currently, doctors need to take a piece of the tumor (biopsy) to check for key gene changes that guide treatment. The goal was to see if circulating tumor DNA in the blood could provide the same information. Fifty patients with metastatic melanoma provided blood samples for analysis.
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 simple blood test to guide treatment decisions for advanced melanoma, avoiding invasive biopsies.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study focused on feasibility, not treatment. The blood test may not be sensitive enough to replace tissue biopsies 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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Chu de Reims
Reims, 51092, France
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