In this episode of It Takes Balls, Dr. Nabil Adra, a medical oncologist at Indiana University Health and leading researcher in testicular cancer care explores everything from recurrence and refractory disease to the latest advancements in treatment and monitoring.
Dr. Adra breaks down risk categories that guide treatment - good, intermediate, and poor - and explains how factors like tumor type and blood markers shape decisions about chemo, surgery, or surveillance. He also dives into the science behind relapse and platinum resistance.
A major highlight of the episode is the discussion of innovative diagnostic tools like circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and microRNA-371. These biomarkers are making it possible to detect microscopic cancer earlier and more accurately, with the goal of reducing overtreatment and improving outcomes.
Dr. Adra also shares insights on long-term monitoring, including the reality of late relapse, and emphasizes why annual checkups are crucial - even decades after treatment. For those with relapsed or refractory disease, he offers a hopeful look at cutting-edge therapies including targeted treatments, high-dose chemo, and upcoming CAR-T cell trials.
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