Noninvasive Blood Test Launched for Myeloma MRD Monitoring

Quest Diagnostics has announced the launch of a novel blood test to assess measurable residual disease (MRD) in patients with the blood cancer myeloma across the United States.

The test, named Quest Flow Cytometry MRD for Myeloma, uses advanced flow cytometry methods to detect small amounts of cancer cells that may remain in the body during or after treatment. By offering a noninvasive alternative to traditional bone marrow biopsies, the test aims to improve access to ultrasensitive monitoring for patients with cancer who are managing the disease as a chronic condition, as Quest explained in a news release.

Main data that support the findings

The Quest Flow Cytometry MRD for Myeloma test provides sensitivity comparable to next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods in detecting residual myeloma. Historically, NGS has been the standard for high-sensitivity detection, offering a tenfold improvement over conventional flow cytometry. However, NGS often comes with a higher price point and requires a baseline aspirate sample taken before treatment to serve as a reference.

Quest’s new test is unique because it achieves this high level of detection using noninvasive blood specimens instead of bone marrow aspirates. Furthermore, the test can be used in clinical situations where a baseline sample is not available. Another significant data point involves specimen stability; the Quest test remains stable for five days, whereas conventional flow cytometry typically requires processing within three days or less. This extended window is designed to support testing access for patients even when specimen transport to a laboratory takes several days.

Trial details

The development and performance of the Quest Flow Cytometry MRD for Myeloma test were presented at a recent American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition. Medical community members were educated on how the assay could improve the treatment paradigm for patients with cancer. In addition to its role in routine clinical care, the test is expected to be utilized as a tool for monitoring patient response within clinical trials.

The importance of MRD monitoring was underscored in January 2026, when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued draft guidance regarding the use of MRD as a primary endpoint in clinical trials for multiple myeloma treatments. This guidance suggests that MRD data can be used to support accelerated approval for new drug and biological products.

Myeloma affects plasma cells — a type of white blood cell — and leads to the production of abnormal antibodies that impact the blood and bones. In the United States, about 36,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, and nearly 11,000 patients die from the disease each year. Monitoring MRD is essential for guiding personalized treatments, such as chemotherapy, as physicians manage the condition over the long term.

Safety

The safety profile of the Quest Flow Cytometry MRD for Myeloma test is highlighted by its noninvasive nature. Traditionally, assessing measurable residual disease requires a bone marrow aspirate, which is a type of biopsy. By utilizing advanced flow cytometry on blood specimens, this test provides a less invasive option for patients who require regular monitoring.

Quest Diagnostics operates approximately 7,000 phlebotomy sites across the United States, allowing patients with cancer to access the test in a variety of clinical settings. The company serves one in three adult Americans and half of the physicians and hospitals in the country. This infrastructure supports the safe collection and transport of specimens, ensuring that diagnostic insights are delivered to healthcare providers to help transform patient lives. This new offering complements a broad portfolio of hematopathology and molecular oncology services, including the Haystack MRD test for solid tumor cancers.

Reference

1. “Quest Diagnostics Launches Novel Flow Cytometry MRD Blood Test for Myeloma, Enabling Ultrasensitive Detection of Residual Disease,” news release; https://newsroom.questdiagnostics.com/2026-02-02-Quest-Diagnostics-Launches-Novel-Flow-Cytometry-MRD-Blood-Test-for-Myeloma,-Enabling-Ultrasensitive-Detection-of-Residual-Disease

Editor's note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, as your own experience will be unique. Use this article to guide discussions with your oncologist. Content was generated with AI and reviewed by a human editor.

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