A systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and prognosis in pancreatic cancer. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Guven, Deniz Can; Sahin, Taha Koray; Yildirim, Hasan Cagri; Aktepe, Oktay Halit; Dizdar, Omer; Yalcin, Suayib
• Is Part Of: Critical reviews in oncology/hematology. Volume 168(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: ctDNA -- Liquid biopsy -- Pancreatic cancer -- Prognosis -- Survival; Oncology -- Periodicals; Hematology -- Periodicals; 616.994
• DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103528
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1040-8428

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: ctDNA is a promising biomarker in localized and advanced pancreatic cancer. The positive ctDNA was associated with lower overall and progression-free survival. Further research is paramount to assess the role of ctDNA in treatment planning. Abstract: Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease with limited therapeutic options. Several strategies are being investigated to improve disease management, including the early diagnosis of recurrences and treatment tailoring by better prognosis estimation. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) could be a promising tool in this regard, although the data is limited. Therefore, we conducted a systemical review and meta-analysis of the published studies on the association of ctDNA and survival outcomes in pancreatic cancer. In the pooled analysis, positive preoperative or postoperative ctDNA was associated with lower RFS/PFS (HR: 2.27, 95 % CI: 1.59–3.24, p < 0.001) and OS (HR: 2.04, 95 % CI: 1.29–3.21, p = 0.002) in localized pancreatic cancer. Similarly, positive baseline ctDNA was associated with lower RFS/PFS (HR: 2.61, 95 % CI: 1.94–3.51, p < 0.001) and OS (HR: 2.41, 95 % CI: 1.74–3.34, p < 0.001) in advanced pancreatic cancer. In conclusion, ctDNA could be a promising tool to individualize treatment planning and to improve outcomes in pancreatic cancer.