What Is a Liquid Biopsy?

A liquid biopsy is a blood test that identifies cancer by detecting circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) in the bloodstream. Unlike traditional biopsies, which involve sampling tissue from tumours, this approach offers a less invasive means to gather genetic insights about the cancer. Liquid biopsies are valuable for early detection, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and tracking cancer recurrence.

Between 2017 and 2021, the Singapore Cancer Registry reported that an average of 46 people were diagnosed with cancer daily, and 16 people succumbed to it each day. With about 1 in 4 individuals potentially developing cancer in their lifetime, early detection becomes critical to improve survival rates.

How Does a Liquid Biopsy Work?

Tumour cells release ctDNA into the bloodstream, carrying genetic information that can be analysed from a simple blood sample. This allows doctors to detect the presence of cancer and gather important information on genetic mutations and alterations, which help guide further diagnostic and treatment decisions.

Bloodstream where tumour cells release ctDNA containing genetic information about cancer.

Benefits of Liquid Biopsy

Liquid biopsies present several advantages:

  • Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional biopsies, only a blood sample is required, making it a convenient and less painful option.
  • Early Detection and Broad Testing: They can detect cancer before symptoms appear and assess multiple cancer types simultaneously.
  • Real-Time Monitoring: This method allows for regular, non-invasive monitoring of cancer progression and treatment response.
  • Targeted Treatment: By examining the genetic data from ctDNA, doctors can personalise treatments to attack specific mutations.

However, liquid biopsies have certain limitations. They may not be as effective in detecting small or early-stage tumours as traditional methods, and their specificity and sensitivity can depend on the type and stage of cancer. Additionally, ctDNA levels in the blood can fluctuate, which may impact the test's reliability.

Nurse drawing a blood sample from a female Asian patient for a liquid biopsy to screen for cancer.

Liquid Biopsy Compared to Other Cancer Tests

Liquid biopsy is a quicker, less invasive alternative to traditional tests like tissue biopsies, CT scans, MRIs, gastroscopy, and colonoscopy, which often require longer recovery and can cause discomfort. While liquid biopsies are valuable for initial screening and monitoring, they are most effective when used alongside traditional tests for comprehensive cancer management. This combined approach supports a more personalised and precise treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific condition.

Blood sample sent to a laboratory to be analysed for cancer.

Liquid Biopsy in Singapore: LucenceINSIGHT™

LucenceINSIGHT™ is a liquid biopsy test created by Lucence Diagnostics, with headquarters in both Singapore and Palo Alto, USA. Using advanced, proprietary technology, LucenceINSIGHT™ detects ctDNA in the blood, assessing cancers such as breast, colorectal, lung, and liver. This test is non-invasive, accurate, and an effective tool for early cancer detection.

What Cancers Can LucenceINSIGHT™ Test for?

There are two types of LucenceINSIGHT™ tests:

LucenceINSIGHT™ (12 Cancers) LucenceINSIGHT™ Plus (50 Cancers)
Breast, Gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST), Lung (Small cell lung cancer, Non-small cell lung cancer, Lung Neuroendocrine Tumour), Bile Duct, Colorectal, Nasopharyngeal, Liver, Pancreas, Cervical, Prostate. Breast, Gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST), Lung (Small cell lung cancer, Non-small cell lung cancer, Lung Neuroendocrine Tumour), Bile Duct, Colorectal, Nasopharyngeal, Liver, Pancreas, Cervical, Prostate, Acute Myeloid Leukaemia, Bladder, Endometrium, Eye, Head and Neck, Kidney, Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma, Myeloproliferative Neoplasm, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Oropharynx, Skin and Stomach.

Source: LucenceINSIGHT™

Price of Liquid Biopsy in Singapore

At healthscreening.sg, we provide LucenceINSIGHT™ liquid biopsy blood tests and also as part of our health screening packages:

Test Price*
Consultation $38.15
LucenceINSIGHT™ (12 Cancers) $1998
LucenceINSIGHT™ Plus (50 Cancers) $3998
Health Screening Packages with LucenceINSIGHT™
Prestige + LucenceINSIGHT™ Plus (50 Cancers) $5450
Imperial + LucenceINSIGHT™ Plus (50 Cancers) $6104
Supreme + LucenceINSIGHT™ Plus (50 Cancers) $7303

*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

How Long Does a Liquid Biopsy Take?

Our doctors will provide a consultation to understand your health situation, followed by a blood sample collection. The entire process typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, during peak periods such as weekends, there may be additional waiting times, and we appreciate your understanding and patience. To ensure a smoother visit, we recommend contacting us via WhatsApp to enquire about the best times to come in.

We also offer home health screening or blood tests at your location for your convenience.

Summary

Liquid biopsy represents a significant advancement in cancer detection, working alongside other screening methods to enhance early diagnosis and ongoing treatment monitoring. By analysing blood samples, this method minimises the need for invasive procedures while delivering essential genetic insights about the cancer. If you're considering liquid biopsy, consult a doctor to understand its benefits and applications tailored to your health situation.

How Do I Make an Appointment?

Book Liquid Biopsy Test Now
Book or Enquire Through WhatsApp At 88933757
Ask Through Email At hello@healthscreening.sg

Health Screening Clinics in Singapore

We offer comprehensive health screening services at two conveniently located clinics, both within walking distance of Tanjong Pagar (EW13) and Orchard Boulevard (TE15) MRT stations.

Our clinics are equipped with advanced diagnostic technologies, including Chest X-ray, Ultrasound, Bone Mass Density (BMD) scanners, and Treadmill Stress Test machines. Additionally, our Orchard clinic is equipped with a CT (Computed Tomography) scanner, enabling us to provide more detailed health assessments. Bookings can be easily made via WhatsApp or by phone.

Patient having a health screening review with Dr Jana Lim of ATA Medical.
Post-screening consult of health screening results with our doctor.
Female patient undergoing ultrasound scan procedure at ATA Medical Clinic.
Mammograms & Ultrasound Scans with Female Staff
Female patient getting ready to undergo X-Ray procedure with a male staff assisting with the preparations.
One-Stop Clinic with X-Ray Facilities
Dr Leonard Leng of ATA Medical having a consultation session with a male patient.
Consultation About Men or Female Health With a Doctor of Your Choice

Navigate Easy With Google Maps

Health Screening Singapore
(Anson House)

Nearest MRT: EW15 Tanjong Pagar

Health Screening Singapore
(Camden Medical Centre)

Nearest MRT: TE13 Orchard Boulevard

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How accurate is a liquid biopsy?

Liquid biopsies are typically reliable for detecting genetic mutations in ctDNA, but their precision can differ depending on the cancer type, stage, and the test's sensitivity.

What is the difference between a tissue biopsy and a liquid biopsy?

While tissue biopsies involve removing part of the tumour itself, liquid biopsies examine a blood sample to find ctDNA and tumour cells that have entered the bloodstream.

What type of sample is a liquid biopsy?

A liquid biopsy is performed using a blood sample.

Is a liquid biopsy painful?

Like a routine blood test, a liquid biopsy is minimally painful, involving only a slight prick when the blood is drawn.

What do liquid biopsies detect?

Liquid biopsies reveal circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) or circulating tumour cells (CTCs), providing insight into the genetic makeup of the cancer.

What are the problems with liquid biopsies?

Challenges include reduced sensitivity in early-stage cancers and the possibility of false results. Additionally, they may offer less detailed information compared to tissue biopsies, so they are best used alongside other diagnostic methods.

Why are liquid biopsies better?

They are less invasive, can be done more frequently, and allow real-time tracking of cancer progression and treatment response, offering a more patient-friendly option.

Can liquid biopsies detect metastasis?

Yes, they can identify metastatic cancers by detecting ctDNA from secondary tumour sites.

What happens if a biopsy report is negative?

A negative report suggests no cancer was found, but further tests may be necessary to confirm this.

What is the success rate of liquid biopsy?

The success varies by cancer type and stage, but liquid biopsies are generally effective in identifying ctDNA in advanced cancers.

How long does it take to get liquid biopsy results?

Results are usually available within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the test and lab processing times.

What does a negative liquid biopsy mean?

A negative result means no ctDNA was detected, possibly indicating the absence of detectable cancer. However, additional tests might still be needed for confirmation.