A Practical Overview of the Stool DNA Test for Colorectal Cancer Screening. Issue 4 (5th April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Anand, Sanya; Liang, Peter S.
• Is Part Of: Clinical and translational gastroenterology. Volume 13:Issue 4(2022)
• Page Start: e00464
• Publication Date: 2022-04-05
• Subjects: Stomach -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Intestines -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Gastroenterology; Gastrointestinal Diseases; Liver Diseases; Intestines -- Diseases; Stomach -- Diseases; Periodical; Periodicals; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.33
• DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000464
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2155-384X

Abstract

Abstract : The multitarget stool DNA test with fecal immunochemical test (sDNA-FIT) is recommended by all major US guidelines as an option for colorectal cancer screening. It is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in average-risk individuals aged 45 years and older. The sDNA-FIT tests for 11 biomarkers, including point mutations in KRAS, aberrant methylation in NDRG4 and BMP3, and human hemoglobin. Patients collect a stool sample at home, send it to the manufacturer's laboratory within 1 day, and the result is reported in approximately 2 weeks. Compared with FIT, sDNA-FIT has higher sensitivity but lower specificity for colorectal cancer, which translates to a higher false-positive rate. A unique feature of sDNA-FIT is the manufacturer's comprehensive patient navigation system, which operates 24 hours a day and provides active outreach for patient education and reminders in the first month after a test is ordered. Retesting is recommended every 1–3 years, although the optimal testing interval has not yet been determined empirically. The cost of sDNA-FIT is $681 without insurance, but Medicare and most private insurers cover it with no copay or deductible.