Liquid Biopsy in Hematology

Blood-based testing for monitoring hematologic disease

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 20, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Hematoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Liquid Biopsy in Hematology?

Liquid biopsy is the analysis of tumor-derived biomarkers from a peripheral blood sample, including circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), circulating tumor cells (CTC), exosomes, and microRNAs. In hematologic malignancies it is used for measurable residual disease (MRD) detection, treatment-response monitoring, and early relapse prediction.

In lymphoma, ctDNA tracking can detect treatment response earlier and more sensitively than conventional imaging. In AML and ALL, NGS-based MRD measurement can guide treatment decisions and provides prognostic information.

Liquid biopsy is noninvasive, repeatable, and offers near real-time tumor genomic information, but standardization, analytical sensitivity, and clinical validation are still evolving. Flow cytometry and PCR-based MRD methods remain the gold standard in hematology.

Symptoms

Liquid biopsy is a diagnostic and monitoring tool, not a symptom-driven test

Used to assess treatment response

Applied for measurable residual disease detection

Valuable for early relapse identification

Helps characterize treatment-resistance mechanisms

Risk Factors

Insufficient ctDNA in low tumor burden

Limited analytical sensitivity

Lack of standardization across platforms

Risk of confounding by CHIP mutations

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

During response assessment in hematologic malignancy treatment
For relapse monitoring in remission
When MRD information is needed for treatment decisions

Treatment Methods

ctDNA monitoring of treatment response in lymphoma

Flow cytometry-based MRD for ALL, AML, and myeloma

NGS-based MRD measurement

PCR-based BCR-ABL monitoring in CML

Molecular consultation for clinical decision support

Serial dynamic monitoring over time

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Hematoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Hematoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.