Cancer Blood Tests: Advanced Screening, Monitoring and Treatment Planning

Is There A Blood Test For Cancer?

The honest answer is: it depends on what you're looking for and what type of cancer you're concerned about.

Understanding Cancer Blood Tests and Early Detection

Cancer blood tests have advanced significantly in recent years. From traditional tumour marker tests to cutting-edge liquid biopsy technology, blood tests now play an important role throughout the cancer journey. However, they work differently depending on your situation and the specific cancer type.

Modern cancer blood tests include:

Liquid Biopsy Advanced blood tests that detect circulating tumour cells (CTCs) and tumour DNA in your bloodstream. These tests can identify cancer cells that have broken away from a tumour and entered the blood, even in early stages of disease.

Tumour Marker Tests Blood tests that measure specific cancer markers (proteins or other substances produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to cancer). Common tumour marker blood tests include PSA for prostate cancer, CA-125 for ovarian cancer, and CEA for colorectal cancer.

Genetic Testing Analysis of tumour DNA from blood samples to identify specific mutations and guide treatment planning. This tells us about your cancer's genetics, not your personal hereditary risk.

Standard Blood Tests Complete blood count and other routine screening tests that can sometimes indicate blood cancer or other abnormalities requiring further investigation.

Blood Tests to Monitor Cancer Treatment Response and Detect Recurrence

For cancer patients who have completed treatment or are currently receiving cancer therapy

Who This Is For

You might benefit from cancer monitoring blood tests if you're a cancer patient who:

• Has completed treatment (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or targeted therapy) and wants reassurance about cancer recurrence

• Feels anxious between NHS follow-up appointments and imaging tests

• Is currently receiving cancer treatment and wants to know if it's working

• Wants earlier detection if cancer returns, giving you more treatment options

• Has had clear CT scans or other imaging tests but wants additional reassurance at the molecular level

What We Offer

Circulating Tumour DNA (ctDNA) Monitoring

Cancer cells release fragments of tumour DNA into your bloodstream. Advanced liquid biopsy technology can detect these tiny amounts of circulating tumour DNA, often months before cancer recurrence would show up on a CT scan or other imaging tests.

This blood test can:

• May detect cancer recurrence earlier than imaging tests in some patients

• Track cancer treatment response in real-time during chemotherapy or targeted therapy

• Provide additional reassurance when imaging tests are stable

• Help guide decisions about continuing or changing cancer treatment

• Monitor tumour burden at the molecular level

Circulating Tumour Cell (CTC) Analysis

Some cancer blood tests also detect intact circulating tumour cells in your blood sample. Cancer cells can break away from the primary tumour and travel through the bloodstream. By analysing these tumour cells, we can:

• Monitor the number of cancer cells in your blood over time

• Assess treatment response by tracking changes in CTC counts

• Detect cancer recurrence through the presence of tumour cells

• Provide complementary information to ctDNA testing

How This Differs From Standard Blood Tests

Unlike a complete blood count or routine tumour marker test, liquid biopsy technology specifically looks for genetic material from your cancer. It's not measuring general cancer markers in your blood, but rather detecting the actual DNA signature of your tumour cells.

This makes it far more sensitive and specific for detecting cancer recurrence than traditional blood tests or tumour marker blood tests.

Important: These cancer blood tests supplement regular imaging tests and clinical follow-up. They do not replace CT scans, MRI, or physical examinations with your oncologist. Think of them as an additional layer of surveillance between your routine screening appointments.

How Often Should Cancer Patients Test?

For post-treatment monitoring, blood testing every 3-6 months is typically recommended. Your specific monitoring schedule will be discussed during your consultation based on your cancer type, stage, treatment history, and cancer risk factors.

For active cancer treatment monitoring, blood tests can be done more frequently to track treatment response and assess tumour burden.

Investment:

£1,395 per monitoring blood test

Recommended every 3-6 months for ongoing cancer surveillance.

What's included:

• Blood sample collection at our central London clinics or at your home anywhere in the UK

• Advanced liquid biopsy analysis of circulating tumour DNA and circulating tumour cells

• Detailed test results review via video consultation with Dr Wilson (included)

• Written report you can share with your NHS oncologist or private cancer care team

• Clear guidance on next steps based on test results

What Happens If The Blood Test Shows Cancer Recurrence?

If monitoring indicates possible cancer progression or recurrence through detection of circulating tumour DNA or tumour cells:

1. Dr Wilson will discuss test results with you in detail

2. We'll recommend appropriate imaging tests (CT scan, PET scan, MRI) to locate and confirm cancer recurrence

3. We'll coordinate with your existing oncology team (NHS or private cancer care)

4. We'll help arrange urgent follow-up and discuss cancer treatment options

5. Early detection of recurrence often means more treatment options and better outcomes

You remain in control of your cancer care throughout.

Comprehensive Tumour Profiling and Genetic Testing to Guide Cancer Treatment

For cancer patients making treatment decisions after diagnosis

Who This Is For

You might benefit from comprehensive tumour profiling and genetic testing if you're a cancer patient who:

• Has been recently diagnosed with cancer and is considering cancer treatment options

• Wants to know which chemotherapy drugs are most likely to work for your specific tumour

• Is considering immunotherapy or targeted therapy and wants to know if you're a suitable candidate

• Has cancer that has progressed despite treatment and you're exploring other options

• Wants a second opinion on cancer treatment recommendations from your oncologist

• Has limited treatment options available through NHS and wants to explore what might work in private cancer care

• Wants to avoid cancer treatments unlikely to work, reducing side effects and preserving quality of life

What We Offer

Genetic Testing and Analysis of Your Tumour

Not all cancers are the same, even if they're in the same organ. Breast cancer in one patient may have completely different genetics from breast cancer in another. Lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and other cancer types all show significant genetic variation between patients.

The genetic profile of your specific tumour can tell us which cancer treatments are most likely to work. This personalised approach to cancer care is far more effective than standard protocols based only on cancer type and stage.

Our comprehensive genetic testing and tumour profiling can include:

Tissue-Based Genetic Testing:

• Analysis of over 500 genes in your tumour tissue

• Identification of targetable mutations that respond to specific cancer treatments

• Immunotherapy biomarkers (PD-L1 expression, tumour mutational burden)

• Mismatch repair status (important for colorectal cancer and other cancer types)

• Detailed report on which cancer treatments your tumour is likely to respond to based on its genetic profile

Chemosensitivity Testing:

• Laboratory testing of how your cancer cells respond to different chemotherapy drugs

• Helps avoid ineffective cancer treatments and their side effects

• Can identify surprising drug sensitivities in your specific tumour cells

• Includes both standard oncology drugs and repurposed medications

• Tests actual tumour cells from your blood sample or tissue biopsy

Comprehensive Liquid Biopsy and Tissue Analysis:

• Combined approach using both tumour tissue and blood samples

• Genetic testing, pharmacogenetics (how you metabolise cancer drugs), and live tumour cell testing

• The most detailed cancer diagnosis and treatment planning available for complex or treatment-resistant cancers

• Analysis of circulating tumour DNA and circulating tumour cells alongside tissue biopsy results

Comparison to Standard Imaging Tests:

While CT scans and other imaging tests show the size and location of tumours, they don't tell us about the cancer's genetics or which cancer treatments will work. Genetic testing provides molecular-level information that imaging tests cannot reveal. This is why blood tests and tissue analysis are complementary to, not replacements for, imaging tests in cancer care.

Important: This genetic testing looks at your cancer's genetics, not your personal hereditary genes. These blood tests and tissue tests do not assess genetic mutations that could be passed on to your children (like BRCA1 or BRCA2). They analyse the mutations in your tumour cells specifically. If you're concerned about hereditary cancer risk, please discuss this separately during your consultation.

When Should Cancer Patients Have This Testing?

Ideally, comprehensive genetic testing is done before starting cancer treatment, so you and your oncologist can make fully informed decisions from the beginning about which cancer treatments to pursue.

However, genetic testing can provide valuable insights at any stage of cancer care, including:

• After initial cancer treatment if cancer has recurred

• When first-line cancer treatment isn't working as expected

• When making decisions about second or third-line therapy for cancer patients with progressive disease

• If you're considering clinical trials for cancer treatment

• When cancer diagnosis is unclear and tissue biopsy results have been inconclusive

Getting Your Tumour Sample for Testing

If you've had surgery or a tissue biopsy for cancer diagnosis, we can request your tumour tissue blocks from the hospital laboratory with your consent. This is a straightforward process that doesn't require any additional procedures.

If tissue isn't available from a previous biopsy or a new sample is needed, we can arrange a fresh tissue biopsy if appropriate. In some cases where tissue biopsy isn't possible, liquid biopsy blood tests can provide useful genetic information by analysing circulating tumour DNA and circulating tumour cells in your blood sample.

Investment

From £2,475 to £4,995 depending on the complexity of genetic testing and analysis required

During your initial consultation, Dr Wilson will recommend which testing approach is most appropriate for your specific cancer type and clinical situation. Not every cancer patient needs the most comprehensive analysis.

What's included:

• Coordination of tissue sample retrieval from previous biopsy or arrangement of new tissue biopsy if needed or blood collection for a liquid biopsy

• Laboratory analysis (tissue-based genetic testing, chemosensitivity testing on tumour cells, or comprehensive profiling)

• Detailed genetic and molecular report explaining test results

• Results review consultation with Dr Wilson via video (included)

• Cancer treatment recommendations based on genetic testing findings

• Written report to share with your oncology team for cancer care planning

• Ongoing support and guidance throughout your cancer treatment

How This Integrates With Your Cancer Care

This genetic testing is designed to supplement and enhance your existing cancer care, not replace it.

Your NHS oncologist will not be offended. This genetic testing provides information for you and your doctors to help you make the most informed decisions possible about cancer treatment options.

The detailed test results can be shared with your NHS or private oncology team. In fact, many oncologists welcome this additional genetic information as it can guide cancer treatment selection and improve outcomes for cancer patients.

Blood Tests for Cancer Screening and Early Diagnosis

For individuals concerned about cancer risk or experiencing symptoms

Who This Is For

You might benefit from cancer screening blood tests and early cancer detection if you:

• Have a strong family history of cancer (breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, or other cancer types) and want proactive screening

• Are experiencing concerning symptoms but face long NHS waiting times for diagnosis

• Want peace of mind through routine screening for multiple cancer types

• Are in a high-risk group (age 40-70, previous cancer history in family, lifestyle cancer risk factors)

• Have had unclear or inconclusive test results from other screening tests or imaging tests

• Want comprehensive cancer screening for multiple cancer types at once rather than single-organ tumour marker tests

• Are concerned about specific cancer types due to occupational exposure or lifestyle factors

What We Offer

Multi-Cancer Screening Blood Test

A single blood test that provides cancer screening for over 70 types of solid tumours by detecting circulating tumour cells and tumour DNA in your blood sample, including:

• Lung cancer (particularly important for current or former smokers)

• Breast cancer (supplementing mammography and other breast cancer screening)

• Colorectal cancer (bowel cancer screening through blood test)

• Pancreatic cancer (notoriously difficult to detect early through standard screening)

• Ovarian cancer (limited screening options available through NHS)

• Prostate cancer (more comprehensive than standard PSA tumour marker test)

• Liver cancer (important for those with hepatitis or cirrhosis)

• Stomach cancer (gastric cancer detection)

• Oesophageal cancer (especially relevant for those with reflux history)

• Bladder cancer (earlier detection than waiting for symptoms)

• Kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma screening)

• Thyroid cancer (thyroid tumour detection)

• And many more solid tumours

If cancer cells or tumour DNA are detected through this cancer screening blood test, the liquid biopsy technology can often identify where the cancer originated, enabling rapid and targeted further investigation through appropriate imaging tests and tissue biopsy.

This represents a significant advance over traditional tumour marker tests, which typically only screen for one cancer type at a time and may miss early-stage cancer.

Organ-Specific Diagnostic Blood Tests

If you have symptoms or concerns about a specific organ, we offer targeted diagnostic blood tests analysing circulating tumour cells and tumour markers for:

Lung Cancer Blood Test Particularly valuable if you have a lung nodule seen on CT scan, symptoms such as persistent cough, or high cancer risk from smoking. This blood test can help determine if further investigation through tissue biopsy is needed for lung cancer diagnosis.

Breast Cancer Blood Test For women with unclear mammography results, dense breast tissue, family history of breast cancer (including metastatic breast cancer in relatives), or palpable lumps requiring cancer diagnosis clarification before or alongside tissue biopsy.

Colorectal Cancer Blood Test If you have symptoms such as rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, or concerning findings on colonoscopy this test can supplement your staging tests and biopsy

Pancreatic Cancer Blood Test Critical for those with unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or family history of pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect through imaging tests alone, making blood tests particularly valuable for assisting early diagnosis.

Prostate Cancer Blood Test More sophisticated than standard PSA tumour marker test alone. Analyses circulating tumour cells to provide additional information beyond routine prostate cancer screening.

Brain Tumour Blood Test (Glioma) For patients with neurological symptoms where imaging tests show a mass requiring diagnosis clarification. Can help guide decisions about tissue biopsy for brain tumours.

These diagnostic blood tests are particularly useful when:

• Tissue biopsy is difficult, risky, or patients are reluctant to undergo invasive procedures

• Previous tissue biopsy results were unclear or insufficient for complete cancer diagnosis

• You want additional diagnostic information before making decisions about cancer treatment

• Imaging tests like CT scans have shown something concerning but aren't definitive for cancer diagnosis

• You want to avoid delays in cancer diagnosis while waiting for NHS appointments

Important Clarification About Blood Cancers

These cancer screening blood tests are designed for solid tumours (cancers that form solid masses in organs). They are not designed for blood cancers like leukaemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma.

Blood cancers are typically diagnosed through different blood tests (complete blood count, blood cell analysis, bone marrow biopsy) that look at the blood cells themselves rather than circulating tumour cells from solid tumours. If you're concerned about blood cancer specifically, different screening tests are required.

Important Limitations of Cancer Screening

These cancer screening and diagnostic blood tests are most effective for people without a previous cancer diagnosis. If you've previously been a cancer patient, the blood tests may not be suitable due to the biological changes that have already occurred in your blood cells and tumour markers.

For cancer monitoring after treatment for cancer patients, please see the Cancer Monitoring section above, which uses different liquid biopsy technology specifically designed for surveillance of cancer recurrence through circulating tumour DNA analysis.

Investment

£1,295 for comprehensive multi-cancer screening blood test

Organ-specific diagnostic blood tests range from £1,475 to £1,920 depending on the cancer type and complexity of tumour marker analysis.

What's included:

• Blood sample collection at our central London clinics or at your home anywhere in the UK

• Laboratory cancer screening or diagnostic analysis of circulating tumour cells and tumour markers

• Test results review via video consultation with Dr Wilson (included)

• Clear explanation of what test results mean for your cancer risk or diagnosis

• Urgent coordination of further investigation (imaging tests, tissue biopsy) if cancer is detected

• Written test results report for your records and to share with your GP or oncologist

What Happens If Cancer Is Detected Through Screening?

If your cancer screening blood test indicates possible cancer through detection of circulating tumour cells or elevated tumour markers:

1. Dr Wilson will discuss test results with you in detail during your results consultation

2. We'll arrange urgent further investigation (CT scan, MRI, PET scan, or other imaging tests) to locate and characterise the suspected cancer

3. If imaging tests confirm a mass, we'll coordinate tissue biopsy for definitive cancer diagnosis

4. You'll receive clear guidance on next steps for cancer treatment

5. If cancer diagnosis is confirmed, Dr Wilson can discuss cancer treatment options or help coordinate referral to the appropriate specialist for cancer care

6. Throughout the process, you'll have direct access to expert guidance

Why Early Cancer Detection Matters

Early diagnosis dramatically improves cancer treatment outcomes for most cancer types. Finding cancer at stage 1 or 2 offers significantly more treatment options and better prognosis than late-stage cancer diagnosis when the cancer has spread.

For example:

• Breast cancer detected early has a 5-year survival rate over 99%

• Colorectal cancer found at stage 1 has a 5-year survival rate over 90%

• Lung cancer detected at stage 1 has treatment options not available for advanced disease

Cancer screening blood tests offer the possibility of detecting cancer months or even years before symptoms would appear, when cancer treatment is most effective.

Why Choose Dr Wilson for Cancer Blood Testing

Consultant-Led Cancer Blood Tests and Genetic Testing

Unlike generic cancer screening services, your cancer blood testing is overseen by a consultant clinical oncologist who understands the complete cancer journey and cancer care.

Dr James Wilson MB BS (Hons with Distinction), MRCP, FRCR, DPhil (Oxon) Consultant Clinical Oncologist

With over 20 years of experience, Dr Wilson specialises in cancer treatment, particularly lung cancer, and has extensive experience in advanced radiotherapy techniques for cancer patients including SABR and proton beam therapy.

Dr Wilson practices at leading central London hospitals including those in Harley Street and Kensington, offering cancer patients access to the most advanced cancer diagnostics, cancer blood tests, and cancer treatment options.

What makes this cancer testing service different:

Consultant Oncologist Expertise

• Your cancer blood test results are interpreted by a consultant oncologist with 20+ years of cancer care experience, not a generic laboratory report

• Every cancer blood test is considered in the context of your complete medical history and cancer risk factors

• Access to expert guidance throughout your cancer testing journey, whether screening, diagnosis, or monitoring for cancer recurrence

Integration With Your Cancer Care

• Cancer blood test results can be shared with your NHS or private oncology team for coordinated cancer care

• Testing designed to complement, not replace, your existing cancer care including imaging tests and tissue biopsy

• Collaborative approach with your current doctors providing cancer treatment

Comprehensive Cancer Testing Service

• Not just a blood test – ongoing relationship and support throughout your cancer journey

• Available for cancer screening, cancer monitoring, and cancer treatment planning through genetic testing

• UK-wide access to cancer blood testing (not limited to London cancer patients)

• Expertise in all aspects of cancer diagnosis and cancer care

Speed and Access to Cancer Testing

• Consultations for cancer blood testing typically available within days

• Blood sample collection arranged within 48 hours for cancer screening or monitoring

• Faster access to cancer diagnosis than NHS waiting times for those seeking private cancer care

• Rapid coordination of further investigation if cancer is detected through blood tests

Transparency and Honesty About Cancer Testing

• Clear explanations of what cancer blood tests can and cannot do for cancer detection or cancer diagnosis

• Transparent pricing for all cancer blood tests discussed upfront

• No pressure – we'll tell you if cancer blood testing isn't appropriate for your situation

• Honest discussion of cancer risk and what cancer blood test results mean for you

• Transparent discussion about the strengths and weaknesses of, and level of evidence to support each test

Two Ways to Book Cancer Blood Testing Consultation:

Option 1: Book Online [Book Your Consultation Now] - Direct access to Dr Wilson's diary for cancer blood testing consultation

Option 2: Contact Our Team If you don't see a suitable appointment time online, or if you have questions about cancer blood tests before booking:

Call: 020 7993 6716 Email: info@drjameswilson.co.uk

Our team will respond within one working day and help arrange a convenient consultation time to discuss cancer screening, cancer monitoring, or cancer treatment planning.

What to expect after booking your cancer blood testing consultation:

1. You'll receive confirmation of your consultation time to discuss cancer blood tests

2. You'll be sent a brief medical questionnaire to complete before your appointment (helps make the cancer testing consultation more efficient)

3. During your consultation, Dr Wilson will discuss your situation as a cancer patient or your concerns about cancer risk, and recommend appropriate cancer blood testing

4. If you decide to proceed with cancer blood testing, blood sample collection can typically be arranged within 48 hours

5. Cancer blood test results are usually ready for review within 7-14 days

Still Have Questions About Cancer Blood Testing?

If you'd like to discuss cancer blood tests, cancer screening options, or cancer monitoring before booking a consultation, please don't hesitate to contact our team. We're here to help.

Remember: Your NHS oncologist will not be offended by you seeking additional information through cancer blood testing. Many patients successfully integrate private testing results with their NHS care. This testing supplements your existing cancer care and can provide valuable insights through liquid biopsy and genetic testing that benefit your overall cancer treatment plan.

You deserve access to the most advanced cancer diagnostic tools available.

Dr James Wilson MB BS (Hons with Distinction), MRCP, FRCR, DPhil (Oxon) Consultant Clinical Oncologist GMC: 6059759

Central London locations including Harley Street and Kensington Home blood sample collection service available UK-wide for cancer blood tests

Please note: The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Cancer blood tests supplement but do not replace standard diagnostic procedures including tissue biopsy and imaging. Test sensitivity, specificity, and clinical utility vary by cancer type, stage, and individual patient factors. Results must be interpreted by a qualified clinician in the context of complete clinical information. Individual outcomes may differ from published research data. All treatment decisions should be made in consultation with your oncologist.