What residual means
The term describes a question about disease persistence, not a single method. Different settings use flow cytometry, molecular techniques or other assays. Measurable highlights the link between a finding and a test’s capabilities.
Results depend on the method
Record disease, sample, marker, sensitivity and sampling time. Negative results from different methods do not necessarily represent the same detection limit. Sample quality and suitability of the target also matter.
Association and decision-making
A result may be associated with recurrence without evidence that changing treatment in response to it provides benefit. Validating a surrogate endpoint and evaluating a test-guided strategy are additional questions.
Interpretation limits
An undetectable result does not prove the absence of every tumour cell.
Original references
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Research questions
Select tools by method, population and purpose. A thematic connection does not validate use in every case.
Educational content for framing research. Consult the original document, study population and methodology before interpreting a conclusion. Methodology