During pregnancy, many women choose to undergo blood tests to screen for fetal disorders like Down syndrome. However, in rare cases, these tests can reveal something unexpected - signs of an underlying cancer in the expectant mother.
A recent study involving 107 pregnant women with abnormal test results found that 52 of them were ultimately diagnosed with cancer. While most of these women have successfully undergone treatment and are now in remission, unfortunately, seven individuals with advanced cancers did not survive.
The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, highlighted that the most common cancers detected were lymphoma blood cancers, followed by colon and breast cancers.
The blood test in question is known as cell-free DNA sequencing, which is primarily used to identify fetal abnormalities by analyzing DNA fragments from the placenta present in the mother's bloodstream. Interestingly, this test can also detect DNA fragments shed by cancer cells.
Out of the millions of pregnant women who undergo cell-free DNA testing annually, approximately 1 in 10,000 receive inconclusive results that may indicate a potential cancer risk. These individuals, estimated to be around 250 per year in the U.S., are advised to take the results seriously and undergo further testing due to the significant 48% risk of cancer.
According to experts, a whole-body MRI scan is recommended as the next step for individuals with unusual test results, as it provides a comprehensive evaluation for potential cancerous growths. This approach is deemed more effective than relying solely on physical exams or family history assessments.
While cell-free DNA tests are commonly used to detect conditions like Down syndrome, the study sheds light on the importance of recognizing the rare possibility of uncovering cancer during pregnancy. Medical professionals are encouraged to stay informed about this potential outcome and consider additional screening for at-risk individuals.
Dr. Neeta Vora, a reproductive genetics specialist, emphasized the significance of educating healthcare providers about this unexpected consequence of DNA testing in pregnancy. She noted that ordering whole-body MRI scans may pose challenges due to cost and insurance coverage.
Overall, this groundbreaking research serves as a crucial reminder of the diverse insights that can be gained from routine prenatal testing, offering new perspectives on maternal health and well-being.
