Scientists at the University of Manchester are working on a simple test using tears to spot brain tumours early. The breakthrough could mean patients getting diagnosed through a quick test at their GP surgery, rather than waiting for MRI scans.
Brain tumours are tricky to catch early because their symptoms are vague – often just headaches or seizures that could mean anything. But researchers believe tear fluid could reveal crucial information about what’s happening inside the brain.
Leading the work is Professor Petra Hamerlik, who lost her father to a brain tumour following 12 months of uncertainty. She’s dedicated to finding better diagnostic methods.
The team found that immune system changes caused by brain tumours show up in tear fluid, allowing them to identify brain tumours with high accuracy using a standard eye test strip.
A major NHS-approved validation study is now underway, involving patients from the UK and other European countries. The goal isn’t to replace MRI scans but to give GPs a quick way to decide who needs urgent imaging or when scan results aren’t clear.
For those living with brain tumours, this new test offers real hope for an earlier diagnosis and better treatment options.
Source: https://www.gbnews.com/health/cancer-brain-tumour-tear-test