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What Is MRD Testing and How Can It Help Monitor Cancer Recurrence?

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For cancer survivors, staying ahead of potential recurrence is a crucial part of ongoing care. One powerful tool for monitoring is Molecular Residual Disease (MRD) testing—a highly sensitive blood test that detects small traces of cancer DNA in the bloodstream. But how does MRD testing work, and why does it matter? Let’s break it down.

What Is MRD Testing?

MRD testing looks for tiny amounts of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA)—fragments of genetic material from cancer cells that may still be in your body after treatment. These traces are often too small to be seen on imaging scans, making MRD testing a powerful tool for detecting recurrence at an earlier stage.

However, not all MRD tests work the same way. Some tests look for general cancer signals in the blood, while others—like Signatera™—are personalized to each patient’s unique tumor DNA for potentially more precise results.

Types of MRD Testing: Why Personalization Matters

There are two main types of MRD tests:

Tissue-Informed MRD Tests (Like Signatera™)

  • Custom-built using the DNA from your original tumor, creating a personalized fingerprint for tracking your disease over time.
  • Highly specific, detecting even minute amounts of ctDNA linked directly to your cancer.
  • Signatera is a first-of-its-kind test that uses a patient’s tumor to build a personalized assay. It is extensively validated, with over 100+ peer-reviewed publications demonstrating its accuracy and clinical impact.

Tissue-Naïve MRD Tests

  • Do not use a personalized tumor DNA profile.
  • Instead, they scan for general cancer-associated DNA markers, which may be less specific to your individual cancer.
  • May have higher false positives or miss low levels of residual disease.
  • Useful when no tumor tissue is available.

Because of its personalized approach, Signatera was the first MRD test to market for patients and remains the most validated test available today.

How MRD Testing Works

MRD testing starts with an initial analysis of your tumor’s DNA (for tissue-informed tests like Signatera™). After treatment, your doctor can monitor your blood over time to:

  • Check for Residual Cancer – Determine if all cancer was successfully removed after surgery or treatment.
  • Monitor for Recurrence – Detect molecular signs of cancer coming back before symptoms appear.
  • Assess Treatment Effectiveness – Understand how your cancer responds to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or other therapies.

Why MRD Testing Matters for Cancer Survivors

Regular MRD testing offers several benefits:

  • More Informed Decisions – Helps you and your doctor stay ahead of potential recurrence.
  • Peace of Mind – Knowing your MRD status can provide reassurance if no ctDNA is detected.
  • Early Action – Catching recurrence at the molecular level may allow for earlier, more effective treatment options.

How Can MRD Testing Fit Into Your Care Plan?

Integrating MRD testing into your follow-up care is simple:

  • Talk to Your Doctor – Ask if MRD testing, like Signatera, is right for you based on your cancer type and treatment history.
  • Stay Consistent – Regular testing ensures ongoing monitoring over time.
  • Use the Patient Portal – Digital tools can help you track results and stay connected to your care team.

Take Charge of Your Cancer Care

MRD testing is changing how cancer survivors monitor for recurrence—offering a more precise, personalized approach to staying informed. If you’re wondering whether Signatera could be right for you, start a conversation with your doctor today.

[Explore Signatera’s Patient Guide]