Description
The Galleri test works by detecting methylation patterns in DNA from blood samples that are associated with cancer. However, it is important to note that while the test can detect many types of cancer, it is not intended to replace regular screenings (such as mammograms, colonoscopies, etc.) and should be used as a supplemental tool for early detection.
Some of the cancers detected by the Galleri test include:
- Lung cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Liver cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Breast cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Head and neck cancers
- Blood cancers (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma)
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Endometrial (uterine) cancer
- Cervical cancer
The Galleri test is recommended for use in adults with an elevated risk for cancer, such as those aged 50 or older, although can be eligible for 18 years old and older. The Galleri test does not detect all cancers and should be used in addition to routine cancer screening tests recommended by a healthcare provider. Galleri is intended to detect cancer signals and predict where in the body the cancer signal is located. Use of Galleri is not recommended in individuals who are pregnant, 21 years old or younger, or undergoing active cancer treatment.
Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of medical history, clinical signs and symptoms. A test result of No Cancer Signal Detected does not rule out cancer. A test result of Cancer Signal Detected requires confirmatory diagnostic evaluation by medically established procedures (e.g. imaging) to confirm cancer.
If cancer is not confirmed with further testing, it could mean that cancer is not present or testing was insufficient to detect cancer, including due to the cancer being located in a different part of the body. False-positive (a cancer signal detected when cancer is not present) and false-negative (a cancer signal not detected when cancer is present) test results do occur.