The prognostic value of cell-free DNA dynamics during chemoradiotherapy in squamous cell carcinomas of the anus.

ABSTRACT: Reliable biomarkers for assessing prognosis and monitoring response to chemoradiotherapy (CRT) are lacking in squamous cell carcinomas of the anus (SCCA). Liquid biopsies measuring cell-free DNA (cfDNA) by direct fluorescent assay (DFA) provide a simple, non-invasive approach. This study aims to investigate the prognostic value of cfDNA dynamics during CRT. Blood samples and clinical data were prospectively collected from SCCA patients undergoing CRT. Serum cfDNA levels (ng/μL) were quantified using DFA at baseline, mid-therapy, and end of treatment (EOT). Baseline levels were analyzed in relation to patient characteristics using Mann-Whitney U test and over time with Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Survival was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank test. In total, 126 patients were

SUBMITTER: Jakobsen AV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12670335 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature