Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | cfDNA BRAF Test, Liquid Biopsy BRAF, ctDNA BRAF Mutation Test, Circulating Tumour DNA BRAF Analysis, Cell-Free BRAF V600 Test |
| Sample Type | Peripheral blood (collected in specialised Streck Cell-Free DNA tubes) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 15 days |
| Recommended For | Adults with known or suspected advanced-stage cancers, particularly melanoma and colorectal cancer; not recommended as a general screening test |
| Price | Starting at ₹16,800 |
What is a Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF Test?
The Cell Free DNA/Circulating tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF test is a blood-based test that detects specific mutations in the BRAF gene by analysing DNA fragments circulating in the bloodstream. It is sometimes called a liquid biopsy because it checks for cancer-related genetic changes using a blood sample rather than a piece of tissue. Doctors prescribe this test mainly for patients with advanced cancers such as melanoma, colorectal cancer, and thyroid cancer. The sample is collected from a vein in the arm using a specialised blood collection tube called a streck tube.
What Does a Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF Test Measure?
The Cell Free DNA/Circulating tumour DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Test analyses DNA fragments released into the blood by tumour cells. The key components it evaluates are listed below.
| Component | What It Is |
|---|---|
| Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) | DNA fragments released into the blood from dying cells, including cancer cells |
| Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) | DNA specifically shed by tumour cells, carrying the same mutations as the primary tumour |
| BRAF V600E mutation | The most common activating change in the BRAF gene, linked to cell growth and division |
| BRAF V600K mutation | Another significant BRAF change associated with response or resistance to targeted treatments |
Why is a Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF Test Done?
Doctors order this test to understand whether a specific genetic mutation is driving a patient's cancer and whether targeted treatments may be appropriate.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may recommend this test when a patient presents with certain signs. Common triggers include:
- Unexplained or significant weight loss
- Persistent fatigue without a clear cause
- Changes in the size, shape, or colour of skin lesions (particularly relevant for melanoma)
- Abdominal discomfort or persistent digestive symptoms
- Changes in bowel habits
- Symptoms suggesting the cancer has spread to other parts of the body
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The ctDNA BRAF Mutation Test is relevant across several cancer types. It can help identify BRAF mutation status in:
- Melanoma (BRAF V600E and V600K mutations are present in roughly 40 to 60% of cases)
- Papillary thyroid carcinoma
- Colorectal adenocarcinoma
- Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma
- Hairy cell leukaemia
- Papillary craniopharyngioma
- Low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma
Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
This test plays a useful role in ongoing cancer management. It can help determine whether a patient with a solid tumour is a candidate for BRAF-targeted therapy using kinase inhibitors. It can also monitor how well treatment is working and track disease progression over time. Higher levels of ctDNA are generally associated with greater tumour activity, while a decline in ctDNA during treatment often suggests a favourable response.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparation for this test is straightforward, but correct sample handling is critical for accurate results.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before this test. You may eat and drink normally on the day of collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
A few steps before the blood draw will help ensure the best possible sample quality. Keep the following in mind:
- Bring a detailed clinical history file, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Inform the phlebotomist of all medications you are currently taking, especially blood thinners
- Stay well hydrated on the day of collection to make the blood draw easier
- Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours before the test, as intense physical activity can elevate cfDNA levels in the blood
- Do not ask for heparin to be used in the pre-collection flush, as it can interfere with results
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is what happens during and after sample collection:
- A trained phlebotomist cleans the skin over a vein in your arm and draws 10 ml of blood using a specialised Streck Cell-Free DNA tube.
- The tube is gently inverted several times immediately after collection to ensure the blood mixes thoroughly with the preservative inside.
- The sample is stored at room temperature and transported to the laboratory; it must NOT be refrigerated after collection, as this can damage the specimen.
- At the lab, the blood is centrifuged to separate the plasma (the liquid part) from blood cells, producing platelet-poor plasma suitable for cfDNA isolation.
- Cell-free DNA is extracted from the plasma and tested for the presence of BRAF V600E and V600K mutations using Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR), a highly sensitive method.
- A specialist analyses the results and prepares your report, which will be ready within 15 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence how reliable the test result is. Be aware of the following:
- The amount of cfDNA circulating in the blood varies between individuals and cancer types, which can affect the test's ability to detect low levels of mutation
- Active infections or inflammatory conditions can raise overall cfDNA levels, potentially affecting interpretation
- Strenuous physical exercise before the test elevates cfDNA, which may interfere with results
- Early-stage cancers may shed very little ctDNA, making detection harder
- Delayed processing of the blood sample can cause normal (non-tumour) cells to release their DNA, which may dilute or mask tumour-derived signals
Understanding Your Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF Test Results
Results from this test are reported qualitatively. Your doctor will review them alongside your clinical history and other investigations.
| Parameter | Result | What It May Indicate |
|---|---|---|
| BRAF V600E mutation | Not Detected | No mutation found; BRAF gene appears normal (wild-type) |
| BRAF V600E mutation | Detected | Mutation is present; patient may be a candidate for targeted therapy |
| BRAF V600K mutation | Not Detected | No mutation found; BRAF gene appears normal (wild-type) |
| BRAF V600K mutation | Detected | Mutation is present; patient may be a candidate for targeted therapy |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain circumstances can affect how results should be read.
Raised cfDNA levels may be seen in patients with active infections or inflammatory conditions, not just cancer. This can make interpretation more complex and may require additional tests.
This test does not distinguish between mutations arising from the tumour itself and those arising from clonal haematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP), a non-cancerous condition where blood stem cells acquire genetic changes. Additional testing may be needed to clarify the origin of any mutation found.
A negative result does not always rule out a BRAF mutation. If tumour shedding is very low, such as in early-stage disease or when a tumour is responding well to treatment, the mutation may fall below the test's level of detection. Tissue testing may still be recommended in such cases.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While this test is specific to cancer management, general habits support overall well-being during and after cancer care. Consider the following:
- Follow cancer screening guidelines appropriate for your age and personal risk factors
- Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so your care team can track your progress
Lupin Diagnostics Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF Test Price
The Cell Free DNA/Circulating tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF test is priced starting at ₹16,800 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 16800 |
| CHENNAI | 16800 |
| HYDERABAD | 16800 |
| KOLKATA | 16800 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 16800 |
| PUNE | 16800 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Getting a Cell Free DNA/Circulating tumour DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell test online booking is simple. Follow these steps:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within 15 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Liquid Biopsy BRAF test analyses DNA shed by tumour cells into the bloodstream, requiring only a blood draw. A tissue biopsy involves surgically removing a piece of the tumour for analysis. The liquid biopsy approach is less invasive, easier to repeat, and avoids issues related to tumour sampling from a single location. However, tissue testing remains the standard when tumour tissue is accessible.
This test is recommended for cancer patients, particularly those with melanoma, colorectal cancer, or thyroid cancer, where knowing the BRAF mutation status helps guide treatment choices. It is especially useful when tumour tissue is not available or adequate for standard testing. Your oncologist will advise whether this test is appropriate for your situation.
Studies show a concordance rate of around 82.8% between liquid biopsy and tissue biopsy results for BRAF mutation status. Liquid biopsy is a reliable alternative when tissue is unavailable, though a negative blood result may sometimes need to be confirmed with tissue testing if clinical suspicion remains high.
Not necessarily. The test's ability to detect mutations depends on how much ctDNA is circulating in the blood. In early-stage cancers or when tumour shedding is very low, a mutation may be present in the tumour but not detectable in the blood sample. Your doctor may recommend tissue-based testing to confirm the result in such cases.
Results from the Cell Free DNA/Circulating tumour DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell tests are typically available within 15 days. This is because the Droplet Digital PCR method used requires careful processing and detailed analysis of the genetic material extracted from the plasma.
Yes, in certain situations. Tracking ctDNA levels over time can provide information about how a tumour is responding to BRAF-targeted therapy. A fall in ctDNA after treatment often suggests a positive response, while rising levels may indicate disease progression. Your oncologist will determine how frequently this test should be repeated based on your treatment plan.
The procedure involves a routine blood draw from a vein in the arm. Most people experience only mild discomfort at the collection site, similar to any standard blood test. There are no significant risks associated with the blood collection itself. The main requirement is that the sample is collected and transported correctly to ensure accurate results.
Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA - BRAF/Liquid Bx. Cell Free BRAF Test: Booking, Price, and Results
