Blood test for diagnosing lung cancer

Establishing a Diagnosis of Lung Cancer Through a Fluid Biopsy

University of Southern California · NCT04162678

This study is testing a blood test to see if it can accurately diagnose lung cancer in patients.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment75 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Southern California (other)
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations2 sites (Los Angeles, California and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04162678 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational trial collects blood samples through fluid biopsy to diagnose lung cancer. The primary goal is to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of this method for identifying bronchogenic carcinoma. Secondary objectives include determining the accuracy of histologic subtype identification and evaluating the contributions of various assays in diagnosis. Patients will have their blood samples analyzed and will be followed for up to one year to assess outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals scheduled for a diagnostic biopsy for suspected lung cancer or those who have recently undergone such a biopsy.

Not a fit: Patients who have received chemotherapy or radiotherapy within the last four weeks or have other active solid tumors may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to a non-invasive blood test for early detection of lung cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using liquid biopsies for cancer diagnosis, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Scheduled to undergo a diagnostic biopsy for possible lung cancer or
* Completed a diagnostic lung cancer biopsy in the prior 2 weeks and has not yet undergone treatment or
* Planning or completed in the last 2 weeks a CT lung cancer screen
* Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who have had chemotherapy or radiotherapy within 4 weeks prior to entering the study
* Known other solid tumor malignancy other than lung cancer requiring ongoing active treatment

Where this trial is running

Los Angeles, California and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Lung Carcinoma

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.