Callisia N. Clarke, MD, MS, FACS, FSSO

Moderator of the press conference at the 2023 Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) International Conference on Surgical Cancer Care, Callisia N. Clarke, MD, MS, FACS, FSSO, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, shared insights on the transition of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) technology from research to clinical practice. Dr. Clarke highlighted the significance of ctDNA in solid tumors, such as colorectal and lung cancers, and referred to the progress made in these areas as an “important leap.”

Commenting on the recent advances in ctDNA technology, Dr. Clarke said: “We’ve been able to transition ctDNA from purely being a research question to actual clinical practice in a few solid tumors, specifically colorectal cancer.” As Dr. Clarke explained, in some institutions, ctDNA is now used to guide treatment for patients with stage II colorectal cancer. Even in the absence of more traditional indications for adjuvant chemotherapy, she said, patients who have ctDNA positivity may still receive adjuvant treatment.

Dr. Clarke further noted the importance of validating ctDNA signatures and the development of widely available tests for these solid tumors. “Our researchers are really dedicated to this particular endeavor, and I think with time and more experience, we’re going to find that we’ll be able to make the next leap,” she added. Regarding the timeline for ctDNA technology to make it to the clinic, Dr. Clarke noted that progress has been made in certain solid tumors, but more work is needed for soft-tissue sarcomas. “I think we’re heading there, hopefully in the next few years,” she emphasized. 

DISCLOSURE: Dr. Clarke reported no conflicts of interest.