Hi Crumbled and thanks for posting.

We do have some enquiries from people asking about liquid biopsies but it is not something we are regularly asked about, as they are still in their very early stages of research.  If you haven't discussed this with your doctors then do talk this through with them.  We can't tell you whether you should pay to have the liquid biopsy done, but your doctor will be able to tell you whether the liquid biopsy is something they can prescribe for you and talk about the pros and cons of it with you.

Liquid biopsies, are thought to have some promise for the future and are being investigated in other research centres around the world, but studies will need to show that they can make a difference before they can be adopted into regular oncology practice.  

You can read some of the results here for a trial looking at liquid biopsies in advanced breast cancer.

The follow up that you will be having from your doctors will be based on the most up to date evidence.  We have information about follow up here .  It tells you what you can expect after your treatment. Please tell your team if you have symptoms that are worrying you in between your follow up visits, as they will be able to arrange to see you.

It is completely understandable that you will feel worried after having treatment, and it is normal to fear the worst after going through something like cancer.

If you are concerned about your level of risk of recurrence and the screening you are being offered please talk about this with your doctor.

I hope this information is useful

You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Take Care,

Rachel