A new study shows that Signatera™, a personalized blood test, detected every case of uterine cancer recurrence before it was found on imaging scans.
Why This Matters
Uterine cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer in the U.S. Most women are diagnosed at an early stage, when treatment is usually effective. Still, for some patients, the cancer can return—even up to 30% of those with early-stage disease. Until now, doctors have had limited tools to know which patients are most at risk or how best to monitor them after treatment.
About the Study
- Researchers looked at 233 blood samples from 61 women with stage I/II uterine cancer who had surgery.
- Patients also had follow-up care, with some receiving additional therapy.
- The study compared traditional risk factors with Signatera testing, which looks for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA)—tiny pieces of cancer DNA found in the blood.
Key Results
- Signatera was the best predictor of recurrence, outperforming standard risk factors used today.
- Among women whose cancer later returned, Signatera identified 100% of the recurrences before imaging did, giving doctors and patients an early warning (by an average of 3.1 months).
- Women who consistently tested negative with Signatera did not experience recurrence.
- This means the test may help avoid unnecessary worry and extra treatments in patients who remain negative.
What Experts Say
- Researchers noted that ctDNA testing was a stronger predictor than any traditional tool. Because it’s personalized to each patient’s cancer, it may help guide more targeted monitoring.
- The early warning provided by Signatera could help doctors decide who may need closer follow-up or treatment, while also avoiding unnecessary or toxic therapies for patients at low risk.
What This Could Mean for Patients
This study adds to growing evidence that blood-based ctDNA tests like Signatera can give patients and doctors more confidence after surgery by:
- Detecting recurrence earlier than scans
- Helping personalize surveillance plans
- Possibly reducing the need for unnecessary treatment in low-risk patients
About Signatera
Signatera™ is a blood test made just for you based on the specific DNA from your tumor. It looks for tiny pieces of cancer DNA called circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in your blood. This helps your doctor know whether your cancer is likely to come back or how well treatment is working.
How Does the Test Work?
- Your tumor’s DNA is analyzed after surgery.
- The test is designed for your unique cancer.
- Each time your doctor orders the test, you give a blood sample.
- The test checks for ctDNA.
- Changes in ctDNA can show if your cancer is shrinking, growing, coming back, or responding to treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why would my doctor order this test?
A: To find out early if your cancer returns and guide follow-up care.
Q: How often will I need the test?
A: As often as your doctor recommends. It may be every few months during follow-up.
Q: What happens if my test is positive?
A: Your doctor may order more tests or talk about treatment options.
Q: Will insurance cover it?
A: Ask your care team or insurance provider. Billing help is available.
Q: Does it involve radiation or painful procedures?
A: No—just a blood draw each time.
What Should I Ask My Doctor?
- Am I eligible for Signatera™ surveillance testing?
- How will this test help my care after uterine cancer treatment?
- What does it mean if my test is “positive” or “negative”?
- Will insurance cover this test for me?
Why This Matters
- Early detection gives peace of mind and allows quick action.
- Personalized monitoring may help avoid unnecessary treatment for low-risk patients.
- More confidence for you and your care team during recovery.
If you have questions about cancer recurrence or tests, talk to your healthcare team. Want more details or help with insurance? Ask your care team for patient resources.
References
Ketch PW, Scalise CB, Recio F, et al. Using Circulating Tumor DNA-Based Molecular Residual Disease Detection for Postoperative Monitoring in Early-Stage Uterine Cancer. JCO Precis Oncol. 2025 Sep;9:e2500286.
Gordhandas, Sushmita et al. Current Evidence-Based Systemic Therapy for Advanced and Recurrent Endometrial Cancer. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network : JNCCN vol. 21,2 (2023): 217-226.
Recio, F., et al. Post-Surgical ctDNA-Based Molecular Residual Disease Detection in Patients with Stage I Uterine Malignancies. Gynecologic Oncology, vol. 182, 2024, pp. 63–69.
