Galleri Test: Preventative Medicine at Source Medical Aesthetics
Preventative and detective testing has come a long way in the last decade, and one of the most promising blood tests available is the Galleri Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test. Dr. Krever, at Source Medical Aesthetics, is excited to offer this test to her patients. In this blog we discuss more about the test and how it can help with early detection of cancer.
WHAT IT IS
First the Galleri blood test is a minimally invasive multi-cancer early detection test that is able to assist in identifying more than 50 types of cancers. This test can be especially useful for adults who are at a higher risk of cancer; people ages 50 and over, or individuals who in a higher risk category because of family history or lifestyle.
HOW IT WORKS
Galleri analyzes a blood sample from a patient. Its algorithms are looking for patterns in the DNA that may signal the presence of cancer in a patient’s body.
The sample needed for the test is collected by a blood draw, collecting a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. This is done by a medical professional to ensure minimal discomfort and quick testing.
Your sample is sent to a lab where it can be DNA sequenced. The sample analyzed then goes through a state-of-the art machine learning system. The sequencing is specifically looking for cell-free DNA.
Cell-free DNA is a type of DNA that’s been released from cells and is present in your blood. There are differences in the cell-free DNA of healthy cells versus cancer cells. The Galleri blood test looks for specific patterns of changes in cell-free DNA that may signal that cancer is present, but it is also working to identify where the cancer started and is located. If a cancer signal is detected, additional tests can be done by your doctor to help confirm the diagnosis.
TYPES OF CANCER GALERRI CAN DETECT
The Galleri blood test can identify more than 50 types of cancer, including cancers of the:
- Breast
- Lung
- Prostate
- Colon
- Rectum
- Pancreas
- And more
The test can also identify cancers that are much less common or not typically screened for; ampullary cancer and certain types of soft tissue sarcoma for example.
The importance of the Galleri test is in its ability for early detection of cancer. Identifying potential cancer early on can lead to earlier treatment, which can improve outcomes and save lives. The Galleri blood test can also be used to monitor people who have a history of cancer or who are undergoing cancer treatment. It can help to detect cancer recurrence and guide treatment decisions. This is a powerful tool and that can save lives.
It should be noted that the test is not recommended for people who have been diagnosed with cancer in the past 3 years, as it may not be able to distinguish between new and old cancers.
The
Galleri blood test offered at Source Medical Aesthetics can be a great tool to help in your preventative health routine. Dr. Krever is ready to provide additional consultation during your appointment as well. If you’re interested in the Galleri blood test,
book your appointment with us today.