Blood-Based Molecular Markers for Breast Cancer Detection: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION: The early diagnosis of breast cancer is associated with decreased mortality. One of the ways to diagnose this cancer is detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). CTCs are the main factor in cancer metastasis and are a promising prognostic significance in cancer detection.This study aimed to review all articles that related to the biomarkers for the early detection of CTCs in peripheral blood by using molecular tests.METHODS: We retrieved relevant articles from PubMed and Scopus, were published from January 1, 2000 to March 1, 2017.Results: Of the 18 biomarkers reviewed, MGB and CK19 are two of the most widely studied markers and they seem to be the best markers for early detection of cancer. 100% sensitivity and 69% specificity for MGB and 100% specificity and 86% sensitivity for CK19 have been reported.CONCLUSIONS: A small number of biomarkers don t have the role in the early detection of CTCs; however, the use of some blood-based markers could improve significantly early detection of breast cancer.

Keywords:

Breast cancer , CTC , early detection , metastasis