Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) Testing

MRD stands for Minimal Residual Disease in cancer, referring to the small number of cancer cells that may remain in a patient’s body after treatment, despite the patient being in remission. These residual cancer cells are often at such low levels that they can’t be detected by conventional imaging or traditional diagnostic tests, but they may still be present and capable of causing a relapse.

Importance of MRD in Cancer:

  1. Early Detection of Recurrence: MRD is a key indicator that can help detect potential cancer relapse before it becomes clinically evident. Even when a patient is in remission, the presence of MRD can signal that the cancer may return. This makes MRD testing an important tool for monitoring remission and assessing the risk of recurrence.

  2. Assessing Treatment Effectiveness: Monitoring MRD levels during and after treatment can give clinicians an idea of how well the therapy is working. A decline in MRD levels suggests that the treatment is effective, while persistence or an increase in MRD levels can indicate the need for a change in therapy.

  3. Personalizing Treatment: MRD testing can help guide decisions about the need for additional treatment after initial therapy. For example, patients with detectable MRD might be considered for further treatment, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or immunotherapy, to eliminate residual cancer cells and reduce the chance of relapse.

What cancers can MRD be used in?

  • Breast Cancer
  • Colorectal Cancer
  • Lung Cancer
  • Melanoma
  • Ovarian Cancer
  • Prostate Cancer
  • Solid Tumor Cancers

How much does MRD testing cost?

MRD testing is NOT covered by Alberta Health Care.  It is a private pay service.

  • Initial baseline test – $7500
    • Includes obtaining original tumor sample, blood draw, shipping to lab, and results interpretation.
  • Subsequent lab tests – $1200
    • Includes blood draw, shipping to lab, and results interpretation.

How often should I get an MRD test?

  • If you are on active cancer treatment, we recommend every 3-6 months.
  • If you have completed treatment and are on surveillance, we recommend every 6-12 months.

How do I sign up for MRD testing?

E-mail info@canadiancancercare.com or call 780-306-5656 and speak to our clinic manager, Amy.