Circulating tumor DNA in colorectal cancer: opportunities and challenges

摘要

Tumor biopsy is the standard method for cancer diagnosis and provides an important sample for pathological assessment. With the development of precision medicine, liquid biopsies are now an important tool to detect molecular changes and tumor heterogeneity. In recent years, research related to circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has intensified due to its non-invasive, convenient, comprehensive, and safety characteristics. Herein, we provide a review describing the clinical applications and prospects of ctDNA in colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis, monitoring and prognosis.