March 21, 2025- A new study by Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers found that the presence of a specific genetic mutation — KRAS circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) — strongly indicates a higher risk of cancer spread and worse survival rates for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The mutation was identified using a readily available and clinically approved blood and abdominal fluid test.
PDAC is an aggressive form of cancer that is often difficult to diagnose. Most patients already have cancer spread to other parts of their body when initially diagnosed, and current tests often miss this hidden spread. This makes it challenging to determine the best treatment strategy. The findings, published in the Annals of Surgical Oncology, may help identify patients who are more likely to have cancer spread to other parts of the body, therefore providing doctors and patients with the right information to make informed decisions about treatment.