What is a potential benefit of liquid biopsy compared to traditional tissue biopsy?

The correct response highlights the minimally invasive nature of liquid biopsies. Unlike traditional tissue biopsies, which often require surgical procedures to obtain a sample from a tumor, liquid biopsies can be performed through blood draws. This less invasive method allows for quicker and easier sample collection with less discomfort for the patient, minimizing risks associated with surgery, such as bleeding and infection.

Furthermore, because liquid biopsies analyze circulating tumor DNA or other biomarkers in the bloodstream, they can provide information about the whole body’s tumor burden, potentially detecting cancerous activity in multiple locations at once. This approach also allows for more frequent monitoring over time, which is beneficial for assessing treatment responses and understanding tumor evolution.

In comparison, traditional tissue biopsies often involve more complicated procedures that can cause various complications and require recovery time. The options focusing on higher invasiveness and extensive recovery time are contrary to the fundamental advantage of liquid biopsies. While accuracy can vary, the minimally invasive method remains a significant benefit that enhances patient comfort and accessibility to testing.