Johns Hopkins University

Vermillion Corporation

Bjorg Kristjansdottir

Karin Sundfeldt

Bert Vogelstein

Kenneth W Kinzler

Nickolas Papadopoulos

Tai-Tung Yip

Luis Diaz

Eric Thomas Fung

Vladimir Podust

Yuxuan Wang

Mats Brannstrom

A diagnostic test for ovarian cysts is based on the detection of mutations characteristic of the most common neoplasms giving rise to these lesions. With this test, tumor-specific mutations were detected in the cyst fluids of 19 of 24 (79%) borderline tumors and 28 of 31 (90%) malignant ovarian cancers. In contrast, we detected no mutations in the cyst fluids from 10 non-neoplastic cysts and 12 benign tumors. When categorized by the need for exploratory surgery (i.e., presence of a borderline tumor or malignant cancer), the sensitivity of this test was 85% and the specificity was 100%. These tests could inform the diagnosis of ovarian cysts and improve the clinical management of the large number of women with these lesions.

Assaying ovarian cyst fluid

The present invention provides protein-based biomarkers and biomarker combinations that are useful in qualifying ovarian cancer status in a patient. In particular, the biomarkers of this invention are useful to classify a subject sample as ovarian cancer, ovarian cancer of low malignant potential, benign ovarian disease or other malignant condition. The biomarkers can be detected by SELDI mass spectrometry, immunoassay, or other means.

Methods for diagnosing ovarian cancer

Growing community of inventors

Gothenburg, Sweden

Bjorg Kristjansdottir