Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test
About Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | ctDNA KRAS Test, Circulating Tumour DNA KRAS Mutation Test, Liquid Biopsy KRAS, Cell-Free KRAS, cfDNA KRAS Analysis |
| Sample Type | Peripheral blood (collected in Streck cell-free DNA tube) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 15 days |
| Recommended For | Adults with known or suspected colorectal, lung, or pancreatic cancer; patients being considered for anti-EGFR therapy |
| Price | Starting at ₹16,800 |
What is a Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test?
The Cell Free DNA/Circulating tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS test analyses a blood sample to detect mutations in the KRAS gene. KRAS is a gene that regulates normal cell growth, and changes in this gene are found in several cancers. Also called a Liquid Biopsy KRAS or ctDNA KRAS test, this blood-based approach avoids the need for a surgical tissue biopsy in many situations. It is typically requested by oncologists when planning or monitoring cancer treatment.
What Does a Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test Measure?
This test examines cell-free DNA (cfDNA) circulating in the bloodstream, focusing on DNA fragments shed by tumour cells. The key components analysed are listed below.
| Parameter | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) | DNA fragments released by cancer cells into the blood, reflecting tumour activity |
| KRAS mutation status | Whether the KRAS gene carries changes in codons 12, 13, or other key regions |
| Variant Allele Frequency (VAF) | The proportion of mutant DNA versus normal DNA; a higher VAF may suggest greater tumour activity |
KRAS mutations are detected in approximately 80% of pancreatic cancers, 40% of colorectal cancers, and around 30% of lung adenocarcinomas. The test is run using Droplet Digital PCR, a highly sensitive method for detecting rare genetic changes in blood.
Why is a Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test Done?
This test is used for cancer diagnosis support, treatment planning, and ongoing monitoring. Your doctor may request it for several reasons.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms, depending on the suspected cancer type, may prompt a doctor to request this test.
- Unexplained or persistent weight loss
- Ongoing fatigue without a clear cause
- Changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
- Blood in the stool
- Persistent cough or unexplained shortness of breath
- A known cancer diagnosis requiring treatment planning
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test is relevant to a range of cancer-related clinical situations.
- KRAS mutations are associated with colorectal cancer (CRC)
- KRAS mutations in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- KRAS mutations in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)
- Identifying patients unlikely to respond to anti-EGFR therapies such as cetuximab or panitumumab
- Monitoring for early signs of disease recurrence after treatment
Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
In patients already receiving cancer treatment, this test plays an important role in tracking how well therapy is working. Fluctuations in circulating tumour DNA levels can indicate whether a tumour is responding to treatment or developing resistance. Repeating the test at scheduled intervals allows the oncology team to make timely adjustments to the treatment plan.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparation for this test is straightforward. There are no dietary restrictions, but a few steps will help the process go smoothly.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before this test. You may eat and drink as normal on the day of sample collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
The following steps will help ensure a reliable sample is collected.
- Bring a detailed clinical history file, including your symptoms, previous test results, and relevant medical records, as this is required for the test
- Inform your doctor or the collection staff about all current medications, including any ongoing cancer treatments
- Drink adequate water before your appointment; staying hydrated makes the blood draw easier
- No dietary changes are needed before the test
- The laboratory uses a specialised Streck tube for this collection; this tube is provided at the time of sample collection
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is what to expect during sample collection.
- A trained phlebotomist will confirm your identity and label the Streck collection tube with your details.
- A 10 ml blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm using a fine needle; the process takes under 2 minutes.
- The sample is stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and dispatched to the laboratory promptly to preserve DNA quality.
- In the laboratory, the blood is centrifuged to separate plasma (the liquid component) from blood cells.
- Cell-free DNA, including any circulating tumour DNA, is extracted from the plasma.
- The extracted DNA is analysed for KRAS gene mutations using Droplet Digital PCR, and your report is prepared within 15 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors may influence the reliability of results.
- Delayed processing of the sample after collection, which can cause normal blood cells to release their DNA and dilute tumour DNA signals
- Low tumour burden in early-stage cancers, where very little ctDNA may be shed into the blood
- Clonal haematopoiesis, an age-related change in blood cells that can introduce background genetic variants
- Inadequate sample volume or improper storage temperature during transport
- Active cancer treatment that has reduced tumour activity, which may lower detectable ctDNA levels
Understanding Your Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test Results
Results from this test indicate whether a KRAS mutation is present and, if so, at what frequency. Your oncologist will review these findings alongside your full clinical picture before making any treatment decisions.
| Parameter | Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| KRAS mutation status | Not Detected (Wild-type) | No KRAS mutation identified; patient may be eligible for anti-EGFR therapy |
| KRAS mutation status | Detected (Mutant) | KRAS mutation present; patient unlikely to respond to anti-EGFR therapy |
| Variant Allele Frequency (VAF)/Mutant Allele Frequency (MAF) | Reported as a percentage | Higher VAF may indicate greater tumour activity; lower or undetectable VAF during treatment may suggest a positive response |
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 situations can make results harder to interpret.
In early-stage cancers or tumours that shed relatively little DNA, ctDNA may make up less than 0.01% of the total cell-free DNA in the blood. This can make detection challenging even when a mutation is present. Additionally, age-related changes in blood-forming cells (clonal haematopoiesis) can introduce background variants that may be confused with tumour-derived signals. Your oncologist will consider these factors when reviewing your report.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While ctDNA levels are not lifestyle-modifiable in the way that cholesterol or blood sugar are, the following general steps support your overall care.
- Attend all scheduled oncology follow-up appointments and repeat tests as advised
- Maintain a balanced diet and stay as physically active as your healthcare team recommends
- Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor promptly so that changes can be investigated early
Lupin Diagnostics Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test Price
The Cell Free DNA/Circulating tumour DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell test cost starts at ₹16,800 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre, as 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 your Cell Free DNA/Circulating tumour DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell test online booking is simple.
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
A liquid biopsy is a blood-based test that detects tumour DNA circulating in the bloodstream. Unlike a traditional tissue biopsy, which requires a surgical procedure to remove a piece of the tumour, the Cell Free DNA/Circulating tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test only requires a blood draw. This approach can also capture genetic changes across different parts of a tumour, which a single tissue sample may miss.
KRAS mutation status directly influences which treatments are likely to work. Patients whose tumours carry a KRAS mutation typically do not respond to certain targeted therapies called anti-EGFR agents. Knowing the mutation status before treatment begins helps oncologists select the most appropriate therapy and avoid treatments unlikely to benefit the patient.
The report for this test is typically available within 15 days. Droplet Digital PCR analysis requires careful laboratory processing, which accounts for the turnaround time. Your doctor's office or the Lupin Diagnostics team will notify you when the report is ready.
Yes, this is a recognised limitation. In early-stage cancers or tumours with lower activity, very little tumour DNA may be shed into the blood. In such cases, a mutation may not be detected even if one exists. This test is most informative when used alongside other diagnostic tools and in the clinical context your oncologist provides.
No medication adjustments are needed before this test. However, you should inform your oncologist about all ongoing treatments, including chemotherapy or targeted therapies, as these may influence ctDNA levels and how results are interpreted.
Yes, the test can be repeated at intervals during treatment. Tracking changes in ctDNA levels over time helps your oncology team assess whether the current treatment is working and whether any new resistance mutations are emerging. Your doctor will advise on the appropriate frequency based on your treatment plan.
KRAS mutations are most frequently found in colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and non-small-cell lung cancer. This test is particularly useful for patients diagnosed with these cancers, both at the time of initial treatment planning and during ongoing monitoring.
Cell Free DNA/Circulating Tumour (Ct) DNA- KRAS/Liquid Bx. Cell Free KRAS Test
