Analytical Study on Relationship between Cell-Free Plasma DNA Concentration and Clinicopathological Features in Breast Cancer

Author(s): Song-Hak Kim, Un-Rim Sim, Chong-Won Ri , Hui-Myong Pak, Chol-Ho Ri, Yong-Suk Kim, Myong-Nam Kim

Background: Breast cancer is the most fatal form of cancer for female population and non-invasive method for early detection of human cancers is a promising way to provide more quality health service to the population.

Objectives: In this study, we made basic data that can evaluate the progression of breast cancer by explaining the relationship between cell-free plasma DNA concentration and clinicopathological features in breast cancer.

Methods: Cell free DNA levels were measured in plasma of breast cancer, breast benign disease and healthy people.

Results: Cell-free plasma DNA concentration in breast cancer was significantly higher than in healthy individuals and breast benign disease. (p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.002) Plasma free DNA concentration was significantly higher as the size of tumor was getting bigger, as tumor differentiation was getting lower, and as pTNM stage was getting higher. And also it was higher in a lymph node positive than negative (p<0.001). Postsurgical plasma free DNA concentration was significantly lower than presurgical concentration. (p<0.001) So we could estimate lymph node metastasis and effect of operation as well as development and progression in breast cancer.

Conclusion: Plasma free DNA concentration is related to progression and metastasis and it can be used as a remarkable biomarker to assess progression of breast cancer, lymph node metastasis and effect of the operation.