Neurotrophin-3 biomarker helps detect peripheral nervous system damage

Breast cancer currently ranks first among all diagnosed types of cancer. Women who have undergone radical breast cancer surgery experience pain and sensory disturbances for a long time after treatment. In some cases, however, there is evidence of structural damage to the peripheral nervous tissue. The Research Group for Personalized Treatment of Post-Mastectomy Syndrome at the WCRC for Personalized Medicine has identified a biomarker that has the potential for early diagnosis of peripheral nervous system damage in patients with post-mastectomy pain syndrome.

Neurotrophin-3 protein is a growth factor for nerve tissue. Neurotrophins have been shown to be essential for the survival and development of nerve fibres in a developing organism. Neurotrophin-3 showed a significant change in blood levels in patients with post-mastectomy pain syndrome with signs of peripheral nervous system damage.

The consequences of breast cancer treatment are complex and require new practical solutions and their widespread implementation in medical practice. The identification of biomarkers that objectively relate to peripheral nervous system damage in this group of patients will facilitate early diagnosis of cancer and possibly the development of new therapies.

Further information about the study is available here.