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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Get an answer to frequently asked questions
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Does the test detect ‘existence of cancer’ or ‘possibility of cancer’?The test detects the existence of cancer. It is a diagnostic test.
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What cancers does this test detect?The test can detect over 70 types of cancer. Including the most common cancers; breast, colon, prostate, ovarian, and lung cancers (see full list below). Please note that it does not check for all cancers, and has been validated for the detection of the following types of cancer: Adenocarcinoma ( Salivary Duct, Thyroid, Breast, lung, Oesophagus, Stomach, Duodenum, Jejunum, Ileum, Colon, Rectum, Pancreas, Gallbladder, Bile Duct, Liver, Ovary, Prostate, Uterus) Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC; Buccal Mucosa, Hard Palate, Larynx, Lip, Oral Cavity, Paranasal Sinus, Pharynx, Pyriform Fossa, Retromolar Trigone, Soft palate, Tongue, Tonsil, Oesophagus, Lung, Penis, Cervix, Vulva, Vagina, Anorectal, Skin); Adenosquamous Carcinoma (Oesophagus, Lung); Neuroendocrine (Lung, Esophagus, Duodenum, Jejunum, lleum, Thymus, Adrenal, Pancreas, Prostate, Colon, Rectum) Renal Cell Carcinoma (Kidney) Transitional Cell Carcinoma (Bladder, Renal Pelvis, Ureter) Gastrointestinal Stromal tumors (Stomach, Duodenum, lleum, Jejunum, Colon, Rectum) Melanomas (Cutaneous, Mucosal) Mesothelioma (Plural, Peritoneal) Sarcomas (Carcinosarcoma, Chondrosarcoma, Leiomyosarcoma, Osteosarcoma, Liposarcoma); Small Cell Lung Cancer (Lung); Glioma. The test cannot detect blood or lymphatic system cancers because CTCs are associated with solid organ malignancies.
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Does the test replace conventional cancer screening?No. the test is designed to be used in addition to, and not replace, conventional cancer screening. This includes standard tests such as mammograms, cervical screening and bowel cancer screening. Does a ‘negative’ result mean that I am ‘totally’ cancer free? Within the limits of error, a ‘negative’ result is a reasonable indication of undetectable cancer of the type covered by the test. For other cancers not covered by the test, no inference should be drawn from a ‘negative’ result.
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How frequently should the test be repeated?As the test is a non-invasive blood test, there is no disadvantage in frequent testing. However, we advise that if possible, it should be performed every 12 months in case of every negative result.
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Is the test recommended for a person suspected to have cancer because of suspicious cancer like symptoms?No, such individuals should seek expert medical advice without delay. The test however can.
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Can the test be used to monitor recurrence after cancer treatment?No. It is not very useful after cancer treatment as it may still detect CTCs from a previous cancer or treatment and therefore not be very useful.
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How long before I get my results?Your results will be ready within 2 to 3 weeks. We offer all patients a free face to face follow-up consultation to receive their results and understand what they mean.
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How much does the test cost?Please contact our wellness clinic for a detailed explanation of the test and the costs involved.
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What does it mean if I have a positive result?A positive result means circulating tumour cells (CTCs) have been detected in your sample, which is suggestive of malignancy (cancer). The sample result will also usually suggest the likely organ of origin and cancer type. A positive result isn’t always confirmatory but means there is a 96% likelihood that you have cancer. Your doctor will discuss with you suitable next steps to confirm if cancer is present. This will usually mean considering further diagnostic tests such as scans and biopsies.
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What does it mean if I have a negative result?A negative result means CTCs were not detected in your sample. The chance of having an active malignancy present in the body is low. A negative Trucheck report does not completely rule out the possibility of cancer as some cancers may not she detectable tumour cells in the blood. You can enjoy the peace of mind given by the negative test result.
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