Proteomics International Laboratories (ASX:PIQ) has unveiled new clinical results that could transform the early detection landscape for esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), a deadly cancer that has long eluded timely diagnosis.
The company’s PromarkerEso blood test, a world-first in precision diagnostics, demonstrates accuracy in identifying early-stage EAC, potentially offering hope to patients who have traditionally faced grim outcomes due to late detection.
EAC is a major health challenge worldwide. Men over 50, especially those with a history of obesity or chronic acid reflux (known as GERD), are particularly vulnerable. Existing screening methods rely on endoscopy, a highly invasive and costly procedure. Yet up to 90 per cent of EAC cases remain undetected until it is too late for effective treatment.
PromarkerEso leverages a set of glycoprotein biomarkers or unique protein fingerprints found in blood serum to identify those at risk of EAC. This novel test requires only a standard blood draw, bypassing the discomfort and dangers associated with endoscopies. In a recent clinical study involving multiple independent patient cohorts, PromarkerEso achieved high diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity rates as high as 98 per cent, and specificity up to 99 per cent, depending on the patient group.
The newly published results involved two independent groups, including both healthy controls and patients diagnosed with EAC or Barrett’s Esophagus (BE), the only known precursor to EAC. The study confirmed a strong and statistically significant correlation between higher test scores and more advanced stages of disease.
Incidence of EAC continues to climb, likely influenced by dietary and lifestyle trends common in developed nations. With endoscopic screening falling short and millions at risk, a simple, accurate blood test like PromarkerEso represents a paradigm shift, offering a non-invasive, efficient, and scalable solution.
The new findings have been published in the journal Diseases of the Esophagus and will be featured as an oral presentation at the upcoming 21st ISDE World Congress for Esophageal Diseases in Brisbane.