Precise MRD reporting includes which pair of possible statuses?

Precise MRD reporting includes which pair of possible statuses?

• A. ctDNA detected
• B. ctDNA not detected
• C. ctDNA detected or ctDNA not detected
• D. ctDNA partially detected

Answer: (C)

Minimal residual disease assessment with circulating tumor DNA is interpreted using a detection threshold. The result is effectively binary: ctDNA is either detected (above the assay’s limit of detection) or not detected (undetectable or below the limit). A status like “partially detected” isn’t a standard clinically meaningful category because detection isn’t a graded half-way signal in these tests; it’s about whether the ctDNA crosses the detection threshold. Therefore precise MRD reporting includes both possible outcomes: ctDNA detected or ctDNA not detected. This clear dichotomy supports straightforward interpretation for prognosis and treatment decisions, even though reports may also include a quantitative value when ctDNA is detected.

Minimal residual disease assessment with circulating tumor DNA is interpreted using a detection threshold. The result is effectively binary: ctDNA is either detected (above the assay’s limit of detection) or not detected (undetectable or below the limit). A status like “partially detected” isn’t a standard clinically meaningful category because detection isn’t a graded half-way signal in these tests; it’s about whether the ctDNA crosses the detection threshold. Therefore precise MRD reporting includes both possible outcomes: ctDNA detected or ctDNA not detected. This clear dichotomy supports straightforward interpretation for prognosis and treatment decisions, even though reports may also include a quantitative value when ctDNA is detected.