How Multi-Cancer Early Detection Tests Work
In the second video of this series, PA Sarah Enslin breaks down how multi-cancer early detection (MCED) testing works, including how these blood-based tests detect cell-free DNA methylation patterns and, in some cases, cancer-associated proteins. She walks through the sensitivity and specificity of currently available tests and explains why a positive result should be a trigger for further evaluation, rather than a diagnosis.
PA Enslin also covers the practical workflow for ordering these tests, giving clinicians a clear picture of how to incorporate MCED testing into practice.
Key Takeaways:
- Multi-cancer early detection tests do not replace existing screening protocols.
- High specificity screening reduces the number of false positives.
- Multi-cancer early detection requires a single blood draw.
Speaker
Click on the photo below to learn more about the speaker.
References and Additional Resources:
Abbott. Cancerguard Test Provider Resources. Accessed August 3, 2026. https://www.exactsciences.com/cancer-testing/cancerguard-mced-providers/resources
Galleri. Provider Overview. Accessed August 3, 2026. http://galleri.com/hcp
Galleri. Test Performance. Accessed August 3, 2026. https://www.galleri.com/hcp/galleri-test-performance
Shreffler J and Huecker MR. Diagnostic testing accuracy: sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and likelihood ratios. StatPearls. Updated March 6, 2023. Accessed August 3, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557491/
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