NCCN guidelines updated to include a ctDNA-MRD testing recommendation for B-cell lymphoma

On January 10, 2025, it was announced that the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has updated its clinical practice guidelines for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) to include circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing for minimal residual disease (MRD).¹ 

The guidelines now recommend ctDNA-MRD testing as an alternative to biopsy for evaluating PET-positive results at the end of first-line therapy in DLBCL. These updates will aid in improving identification of patients in need of additional therapy.¹ 

The inclusion of ctDNA testing aims to reduce unnecessary procedures and treatment burdens for patients, addressing challenges like false positives in PET scans and the need for invasive biopsies.¹ 

This is the first time ctDNA-MRD testing has been included in these guidelines, marking a significant advancement in lymphoma patient care.¹