AUTHOR=Easaw Saumya , Hsu Johann , Steuerwald Nury , Heeke Arielle L. 

TITLE=Liquid clues: tracking early-stage breast cancer with ctDNA - a mini review

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Oncology

VOLUME=Volume 15 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2025.1634859

DOI=10.3389/fonc.2025.1634859

ISSN=2234-943X

ABSTRACT=Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a testing modality that has several potential applications in the management of non-metastatic breast cancer. In this mini review, we discuss its role in early detection, treatment response assessment, and surveillance for minimal residual disease (MRD). We also review technological advances that may increase assay sensitivity. Finally, we highlight key prospective therapeutic intervention trials that evaluate the incorporation of ctDNA into clinical management of early breast cancer.