What sample type is required for MRD monitoring tests?

What sample type is required for MRD monitoring tests?

• A. Tumor tissue
• B. Blood only
• C. Saliva
• D. Urine

Answer: (B)

MRD monitoring requires a sample that accurately reflects residual cancer burden and can be collected repeatedly. Peripheral blood is the standard because it is easy to obtain with serial draws and often contains detectable cancer cells or tumor-derived DNA for many hematologic malignancies, allowing highly sensitive tests to track disease over time. While some diseases may use bone marrow for greater sensitivity, blood provides a practical and reliable basis for ongoing MRD assessment. Tissue (tumor), saliva, and urine generally do not reliably reflect systemic MRD in these settings and are not used for routine MRD monitoring.

MRD monitoring requires a sample that accurately reflects residual cancer burden and can be collected repeatedly. Peripheral blood is the standard because it is easy to obtain with serial draws and often contains detectable cancer cells or tumor-derived DNA for many hematologic malignancies, allowing highly sensitive tests to track disease over time. While some diseases may use bone marrow for greater sensitivity, blood provides a practical and reliable basis for ongoing MRD assessment. Tissue (tumor), saliva, and urine generally do not reliably reflect systemic MRD in these settings and are not used for routine MRD monitoring.