Global life sciences company Labcorp has introduced a new liquid biopsy test called Labcorp Plasma Focus.

The new test enables the identification of targeted therapies and improved care for patients suffering from advanced or metastatic solid tumours.

Oncologists can use the test to assess circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) released by tumour cells and offer personalised, targeted therapy plans for patients.

Labcorp oncology global enterprise head and senior vice-president Dr Prasanth Reddy said: “The launch of Labcorp Plasma Focus is a critical step in the expansion of Labcorp's suite of precision oncology tests.

“With a single, minimally invasive blood draw, we are able to detect clinically actionable biomarkers in patients across common cancer types, while reducing the physical burden that testing has on the patient.”

Labcorp Plasma Focus test supports providers in identifying biomarkers at an early stage, helping to use available targeted therapies to enhance survival outcomes.

Sequencing cfDNA can help identify key genetic alterations to support the selection of correct therapies for patients with melanoma, oesophageal, breast, colorectal, non-small cell lung, gastroesophageal junction and gastric cancers.

The test is said to complement tissue-based genomic testing, specifically in situations where tissue samples are unavailable or inaccessible.

Labcorp chief medical and scientific officer Dr Brian Caveney said: “Labcorp is focused on delivering critical insights at every stage of care for physicians, patients, cancer care teams and our biopharma partners.

“The development and launch of Labcorp Plasma Focus marks a pivotal moment in the use of technology to enable therapy selection for patients far earlier than previously available, allowing oncologists to better manage the care of their patients.”