Round table on oncology patient access to liquid biopsy

A round table with leading oncologists took place virtually on 18 October. The participating experts discussed access to liquid biopsy for oncology patients, focusing on the current status quo in clinical settings, potential reimbursement, and guideline recommendations. They also discussed objectives and barriers relating to liquid biopsy and identified important stakeholders in the healthcare system. The round table was organised by member companies of BIO Deutschland’s Liquid Biopsy Task Force, which is affiliated with the association’s Working Group on Diagnostics. In cancer research, liquid biopsy involves the detection of tumour cells or tumour DNA in the blood of patients. Tumour cells release small pieces of genetic information into the blood, which can be analysed to identify characteristics typical of cancer.