Quest Diagnostics has launched a new blood-based test—Quest Flow Cytometry MRD for Myeloma—to monitor measurable residual disease (MRD) in multiple myeloma patients across the U.S. The test uses advanced flow cytometry to detect very low levels of remaining cancer cells with sensitivity comparable to next-generation sequencing (NGS), but without requiring invasive bone marrow biopsies.
Unlike NGS, the test does not need a baseline bone marrow sample and can be performed using blood alone. It also offers improved specimen stability (up to five days), helping expand access for patients whose samples require longer transport times. Performance data were presented at the American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting.
The launch aligns with recent draft guidance from the Food and Drug Administration recognizing MRD as a potential primary endpoint in multiple myeloma clinical trials. Overall, the test provides a less invasive, more accessible option for high-sensitivity disease monitoring in both routine care and clinical research.