The rising incidence of cancer around the world is leading to the growth of biopsy. A procedure of biopsy including a sample of tissues and cells for analysis can help to diagnose cancer at a very early stage. Manufacturers are also introducing new biopsy devices to provide better results and at the same time improve comfort. However, a liquid biopsy which offers the non-invasive diagnostic test for detecting cancer is also witnessing a growth. A liquid biopsy is simple and less expensive as compared to other biopsies. Increasing the life expectancy to patients, liquid samples help to detect progression of the disease in real-time and can also switch treatment if required. Hence liquid biopsy is restricting the growth of biopsy devices.
According to the report by Future Market Insights (FMI), the demand for biopsy devices globally is increasing, owing to the rising cases of cancer. In terms of revenue, global biopsy device market is anticipated to register 6.5% CAGR during 2016-2026. It is also expected to reach around $2,700 million by the end of 2026.
On basis of product type, biopsy needles is projected to gain 36.5% value share by the end of 2026. Moreover, companies in biopsy device market are entering into mergers and acquisitions to enhance product portfolio and improve product availability in various areas. However, a liquid biopsy procedure is anticipated to hamper the growth of biopsy device market.
New biopsy devices to improve cancer diagnoses
A team of researchers from UCLA and Cedars-Sinai has discovered a technique and device to predict the type of cancer likely to spread. The tiny experimental device and new blood-analysis technique help doctors predict the type of cancer which can spread by characterizing and identifying tumor cells circulating in the blood. By running blood through a postage stamp-sized chip coated with antibodies or proteins that help to recognize tumor cells researchers have conducted liquid biopsies.
According to the American Cancer Society, around 27,000 men in the U.S. are expected to die from prostate cancer in 2017. Hence, it has become necessary to identify which patient is suffering from which type of cancer. The research team has also determined that nucleus is the smallest cancer cell compared to other cells. Meanwhile, patients with an advanced case of prostate cancer have cells with these small nuclei.
The University of California is testing a new device in a clinical setting. The device is said to produce useful samples with less pain and discomfort. The endocervical curettage soft-ECC fabric-based device has been developed by Histologics, looks like a plastic toothbrush. The brush on the device is made of soft hooks that can pull tissue and pluck off cells and trap them within the hooks. The study has been conducted using the new device and the results have been positive in terms of quality and the comfort level of the patient undergoing colposcopies. This new device also eliminates the need to repeat biopsies, by offering better results.
Two of the most basic risk in biopsies is infection and bleeding. Hence companies are focusing on developing devices that help to perform biopsies without any cut on the body.
