Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) makes up 85% of all lyphomas and is subdivided into a wide range of distinct disease entities. Diagnosing and monitoring of lymphoma is currently challenging. No effective method of screening for lymphoma currently exists, and NHL patients are typically identified after experiencing one or more symptoms, performing various tests to exclude other causes, and confirming the diagnosis by examination of tissue biopsies by a pathologist. Thus, there is currently a great medical need for accurate methods for non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring of NHL.
Scientists at Oslo University Hospital have identified a panel of methylated genes associated with multiple subtypes of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) and which is able to differentiate between NHL and control samples at high sensitivity and specificity. A blood-based test based on this panel of markers will be useful for diagnosis and monitoring of disease recurrence following treatment, improving patient care.
An international patent application claiming the biomarkers has been filed (WO 2014184684A2).