For the First Time in Kazakhstan, the Medical Center Hospital Has Implemented a New Blood-Based Method for Detecting Cancer-Related Mutations

The Medical Center Hospital of the President’s Affairs Administration of the Republic of Kazakhstan has implemented a unique technology- a method for detecting mutations using circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). This test has been introduced for the first time in Kazakhstan and the countries of the region. The method is highly advanced and requires modern equipment and next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies.

The new method makes it possible to detect tumor cells and specific mutations in venous blood. This enables specialists to predict the development of cancer and the onset of metastasis 8-19 months before clinical manifestations appear.

“We have implemented a method that represents the future of oncology. It allows us to detect cancer at early stages, identify additional mutations, and perform diagnostics in cases where biopsy cannot be carried out. Based on these biomarkers, we can predict the onset of metastasis 8-19 months in advance” noted Gulshara Abildinova, Head of the Genomic Laboratory of the Medical Center Hospital.

Currently, panels for 52 mutations have been developed, and the first results have already been obtained. Genetic changes have been identified in patients for whom it was previously impossible to determine the tumor mutation profile, and targeted therapy has been prescribed.

This method is of particular importance for patients with breast cancer, as it allows timely detection of signs of metastasis and adjustment of the treatment strategy.

The implementation of this method opens up new opportunities for oncologists and chemotherapy specialists, enabling them to prescribe targeted or adjuvant therapy in a timely manner.