MAYO CLINIC

FDA approves Exact Sciences' Cologuard Plus for CRC screening in adults 45+ with average risk, based on BLUE-C study results showing 95% sensitivity for CRC and 43% for advanced precancerous lesions. The test, set to launch in 2025, aims to improve early detection and reduce false positives.

The US FDA approved Cologuard Plus, a multitarget stool DNA test for CRC screening in adults aged 45+, reducing false positives by over 30%. The test showed 93.9% sensitivity for CRC and 90.6% specificity for advanced neoplasia, outperforming fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) in detecting CRC and advanced precancerous lesions. Cologuard Plus is set to launch with Medicare coverage in 2025.

Mayo Clinic's Dr. Abhinav Khanna performed the first single-port robot-assisted partial nephrectomy, a minimally invasive surgery for kidney cancer, reducing incisions and recovery time, and allowing a more natural patient position to avoid musculoskeletal injury.

Peripartum pelvic physical and occupational therapy aims to reduce postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction, emphasizing early treatment for optimal recovery. Services include prenatal care for pain and incontinence, acute postpartum visits for mobility and function, and outpatient evaluations for posture and strength. Research supports the benefits of early intervention and muscle reeducation.

Mayo Clinic researchers are conducting a phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of allogenic, culture-expanded bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in treating painful lumbar facet joint arthropathy (LFJA). Preliminary results from a case report indicate favorable feasibility and safety profiles, with potential therapeutic benefits for pain management and functional activities. Dr. Wenchun Qu emphasizes the need for further randomized trials to confirm efficacy and safety.

Exact Sciences' Cologuard Plus™ test, approved by FDA for CRC screening, shows 95% cancer sensitivity and 43% for advanced precancerous lesions at 94% specificity, outperforming FIT. Launch expected in 2025 with Medicare coverage.

California reports first human cases of bird flu in dairy workers; CDC assesses risk to public as low. Missouri investigates potential human-to-human spread among healthcare workers.

Dr. William Kevin Kelly discusses AMG 509 (Xaluritamig), a STEAP1-targeted T-cell engager for advanced prostate cancer, highlighting its mechanism, dosing optimization, and efficacy in heavily pretreated patients. He notes manageable cytokine release syndrome and musculoskeletal side effects, with plans for a phase 3 trial comparing Xaluritamig to standard therapies. The drug shows promising results in late-stage prostate cancer, with durable outcomes and potential to change clinical practice, though further research on optimal sequencing and combination strategies is needed.

The 5th edition of WHO Classification of Head and Neck Tumors, with a radiologist on the editorial board, emphasizes molecular and genetic markers. New techniques like liquid biopsy and molecular markers like p16 and EBV-encoded small RNAs are highlighted. WHO guidelines now include genetic tumor syndromes and updated classifications based on molecular markers.

Healthcare leaders debate the ethics of commercializing de-identified patient data for research, drug discovery, and large language models, with concerns over consent and HIPAA compliance. Some advocate for more conservative approaches, while others see potential in startups and blockchain technology to accelerate medical research without exploitation.