I realized I used to terms that may not be familiar to many.
ctDNA (circulating tumor DNA) — Tiny fragments of DNA that cancer cells shed into the bloodstream. A blood test can detect them even when scans show nothing, which is why someone can have clear scans and a positive ctDNA result at the same time.
MRD (measurable residual disease) — The small amount of cancer that may remain after treatment, too little to show up on scans but detectable through sensitive tests like ctDNA.
"MRD-positive" means there's measurable evidence cancer may still be present at a molecular level. (You'll also see it written as "minimal residual disease" — the older name for the same thing.)
MRD trial — A clinical research study testing how best to monitor or treat patients who are MRD-positive — often people exactly in the "clear scans, positive ctDNA" situation.
Surveillance — The phase after treatment ends, when you're monitored regularly through scans and bloodwork to catch any return of cancer early. Not the same as being in active treatment.
Remission — When the signs and symptoms of cancer are reduced or gone. It doesn't always mean cured — which is where MRD testing comes in.
Survivorship program — A dedicated clinical program focused on life after cancer treatment: long-term side effects, monitoring, mental health, and quality of life — not just watching for recurrence.
Molecular level — Detecting cancer by its DNA or biological markers rather than by seeing a tumor on a scan. Molecular evidence can appear months before anything shows up on imaging.
I’m not very knowledgeable about sports, and I feel like I mentioned this same thing elsewhere recently? Maybe on LinkedIn? Anyway, I used to say the patient was the “owner’ - similar to the general manager. Many different positions coached/directed/played etc. I always think 2+ opinions are so important, and these should be encouraged. Diversity is good- diversity in choices, opinions, experiences. Great post, thanks for sharing! =)
Yes, I am not sure if it was here or in LinkedIn, but I remember asking AI to explain the difference between a GM and owner. From what I recall, the line I liked the best was the owner writes the checks, the GM decides who's name goes on them. I like that because owner implies those with more money have an easier time assembling the best team. All of us can be equal General Managers.
I realized I used to terms that may not be familiar to many.
ctDNA (circulating tumor DNA) — Tiny fragments of DNA that cancer cells shed into the bloodstream. A blood test can detect them even when scans show nothing, which is why someone can have clear scans and a positive ctDNA result at the same time.
MRD (measurable residual disease) — The small amount of cancer that may remain after treatment, too little to show up on scans but detectable through sensitive tests like ctDNA.
"MRD-positive" means there's measurable evidence cancer may still be present at a molecular level. (You'll also see it written as "minimal residual disease" — the older name for the same thing.)
MRD trial — A clinical research study testing how best to monitor or treat patients who are MRD-positive — often people exactly in the "clear scans, positive ctDNA" situation.
Surveillance — The phase after treatment ends, when you're monitored regularly through scans and bloodwork to catch any return of cancer early. Not the same as being in active treatment.
Remission — When the signs and symptoms of cancer are reduced or gone. It doesn't always mean cured — which is where MRD testing comes in.
Survivorship program — A dedicated clinical program focused on life after cancer treatment: long-term side effects, monitoring, mental health, and quality of life — not just watching for recurrence.
Molecular level — Detecting cancer by its DNA or biological markers rather than by seeing a tumor on a scan. Molecular evidence can appear months before anything shows up on imaging.
Thanks for the breakdown here. I didn't know the "ct" in ctDNA stood for circulating tumor!
Glad it helped. I'm still learning some of these myself
I’m not very knowledgeable about sports, and I feel like I mentioned this same thing elsewhere recently? Maybe on LinkedIn? Anyway, I used to say the patient was the “owner’ - similar to the general manager. Many different positions coached/directed/played etc. I always think 2+ opinions are so important, and these should be encouraged. Diversity is good- diversity in choices, opinions, experiences. Great post, thanks for sharing! =)
Yes, I am not sure if it was here or in LinkedIn, but I remember asking AI to explain the difference between a GM and owner. From what I recall, the line I liked the best was the owner writes the checks, the GM decides who's name goes on them. I like that because owner implies those with more money have an easier time assembling the best team. All of us can be equal General Managers.
Ooohhhhh! Good use of AI! And I really like that explanation AND that last line where you say: “ We all can be equal general managers!”