Non – invasive or Minimally Invasive Compared with traditional detection methods such as tissue biopsy, blood collection using cell – free DNA blood collection tubes is a relatively non – invasive or minimally invasive procedure. It only requires a small amount of blood to be drawn, causing less pain and lower risks to patients. This is especially suitable for patients who are not suitable for tissue biopsy, such as pregnant women, the elderly, or those in poor physical condition.
Real – time Dynamic Monitoring Blood can be collected multiple times as needed, facilitating real – time dynamic monitoring of the occurrence, development, treatment effect, and recurrence of diseases. For example, during cancer treatment, the changes in tumor – related cell – free DNA in the blood can be regularly detected to adjust the treatment plan in a timely manner.
Rich Detection Information Cell – free DNA in the blood contains genetic information from various tissues and cells throughout the body. By analyzing it, genetic information regarding tumors, fetuses, transplanted organs, etc., can be obtained, which is helpful for the diagnosis, classification, and prognosis assessment of various diseases.
Simple and Quick Operation The use of cell – free DNA blood collection tubes is relatively simple and easy to master. The collected blood samples can be stably preserved for a certain period, facilitating transportation and testing, thus improving the efficiency and operability of clinical testing.
Disadvantages
Low DNA Content The content of cell – free DNA in the blood is usually low, perhaps only accounting for a small proportion of the total DNA in the blood. This poses high requirements for the sensitivity and accuracy of detection techniques. Special enrichment and amplification techniques may be required to increase the success rate of detection, increasing the cost and complexity of the test.
Individual Variations There may be differences in the release amount and stability of cell – free DNA in the blood among different individuals. This can affect the accuracy and reliability of test results, leading to false – negative or false – positive results. For example, in some individuals, due to physiological conditions, disease types, etc., the content of cell – free DNA in the blood may be extremely low, making it difficult to detect abnormal signals.
Lack of Specific Markers Although some changes in cell – free DNA are associated with specific diseases, there is still a lack of highly specific markers. In many cases, the detected changes in cell – free DNA may be related to multiple diseases or physiological conditions, making it difficult to accurately locate and diagnose diseases. Comprehensive judgment based on other clinical examination results is often required.
Limitations
Restrictions of Detection Technology Although the detection technology for cell – free DNA is constantly evolving, there are still some limitations. For example, the sensitivity and specificity of certain detection methods need to be further improved, and the ability to detect low – level gene mutations or other genetic changes is limited. It may not be possible to detect some early or minor lesions.
Limitations in Disease Types Cell – free DNA blood collection tubes have good effects in the diagnosis and monitoring of some diseases. However, for some other diseases, such as neurological diseases and autoimmune diseases, the changes in cell – free DNA in the blood may be insignificant or lack specificity, resulting in a relatively limited scope of application.
Many Interfering Factors Factors such as the standard operation during blood collection, sample preservation conditions, patients’ diet, exercise, and drug use can all affect the content and quality of cell – free DNA in the blood, thus interfering with the accuracy of test results. These factors need to be strictly controlled in clinical applications to ensure the reliability of test results.
HUACHENGYANG
