Hackensack University Medical Center Offers an Innovative New Screening Option for Patients at High Risk for Pancreatic Cancer

First blood test on the market dedicated to the early detection of familial or hereditary pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Hackensack University Medical Center launched an innovative surveillance program that screens individuals who are at high risk for developing pancreatic cancer. Patients who are eligible will receive both an imaging test and a novel biomarker test that measures the immune system’s response to pancreatic disease in the blood. 

The IMMray® PanCan-d Test is the first blood test on the market dedicated to the early detection of familial or hereditary pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC):

• The IMMray PanCan-d analyzes nine biomarkers in serum to detect pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common type of pancreatic cancer. Biomarkers involved in multiple cellular processes including metabolism, inflammation and tissue damage/repair, along with CA19-9, are included in the assay. 

• A sample's response to each biomarker is measured and then combined using an algorithm to determine a test result of “High-Risk Signature Present,” “Negative for High-Risk Signature,” or "Borderline.”

• A Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology study found the test demonstrated a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 99% in detecting pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) using serum. The IMMray PanCan-d test was able to detect Stage I & II PDAC with 89% sensitivity and 99% specificity.

Hackensack University Medical Center, a National Pancreas Foundation Center of Excellence since 2013, is offering this new initiative as part of the hospital’s high-risk surveillance program for pancreatic cancer. 

Learn more about innovative cancer treatments at Hackensack University Medical Center.