DALLAS, Oct. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- The Mary Crowley Medical Research Center (MCMRC), is an internationally acclaimed center focused on the research of novel cancer treatments, can identify circulating cancer cells through the Veridex CellSearch machine. Veridex manufactures the machine, which is an innovative device that can pinpoint as few as five cancerous cells in seven milliliters (equivalent to one and a half teaspoons) of blood. This is a critical step in early cancer detection and the treatment process. The analysis provides unique diagnostic information for predicting progression- free survival in breast cancer than possible by standard imaging techniques.
While CellSearch is currently being used to monitor cancer in people already diagnosed with breast cancer it is hopeful that one day it can be used as a screening device. It is FDA-approved for breast cancer, and is being studied for prostate, lung, and melanoma detection as well. MCMRC was the first center to use CellSearch for clinical applications. The exam costs about $500, and it can be covered by most insurance.
“If we can pick it up early, where it’s still surgically resectable or treatable with radiation, then there’s a much better chance of ensuring long- term survival and durable effect from cancer treatment,” said MCMRC executive medical director Dr. John Nemunaitis.
“Our work with CellSearch allows us to ascertain if a patient has circulating cancer cells, that in many cases, is missed through traditional screenings or treatment follow-up,” Dr. Nemunaitis continued. “The CellSearch provides valued information, particularly after treatment, to understand if further treatment is or is not needed.”
According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and approximately 40,970 women will die of breast cancer in the U.S. this year.
For more information on the MCMRC or Veridex, please visit http://www.mcmrc.com or http://www.veridex.com .
EDITORS NOTE: B roll, patient interviews and materials are available.
Mary Crowley Medical Research Center
CONTACT: Stephanie N. Squires of Levenson & Brinker Public Relations,+1-214-932-6042, or Stephanie.squires@levensonbrinkerpr.com , for MaryCrowley Medical Research Center
