Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) have introduced a promising new blood test for the early detection of pancreatic cancer, specifically pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which is responsible for the majority of pancreatic cancer cases. This test, named PAC-MANN, utilizes a small blood sample to identify changes in protease enzyme activity associated with the disease.
Pancreatic cancer is known for its poor prognosis, with only 13% of diagnosed patients surviving five years post-diagnosis. The late-stage diagnosis often complicates successful treatment, as the cancer frequently spreads beyond the pancreas. Current diagnostic methods, such as the CA 19-9 test, are limited in their ability to detect the disease early.
The PAC-MANN test shows a high level of accuracy, successfully differentiating between blood samples from individuals with pancreatic cancer and those from healthy individuals or those with non-cancerous pancreatic conditions in 98% of cases. When combined with the existing CA 19-9 test, PAC-MANN improved early detection rates to 85%.
In addition to its diagnostic capabilities, PAC-MANN may also serve to monitor treatment effectiveness, indicated by a decrease in enzyme activity during successful therapy. The test is designed to be cost-effective and quick, providing results in approximately 45 minutes.
Future trials at OHSU aim to validate PAC-MANN further, particularly in patients at high risk for developing pancreatic cancer. The advancement of this test could significantly enhance early detection and treatment options, potentially improving survival outcomes for patients diagnosed with this challenging disease.
