The test offers sensitivity comparable to next-generation sequencing methods while using noninvasive blood specimens instead of bone marrow aspirates.
Quest Diagnostics has launched a blood test that uses flow cytometry methods to assess measurable residual disease (MRD) in patients with multiple myeloma. The Quest Flow Cytometry MRD for Myeloma test provides sensitivity comparable to next-generation sequencing methods while offering improved accessibility and cost-effectiveness.
The test uses next-generation flow cytometry techniques on noninvasive blood specimens rather than bone marrow aspirates, which are typically required for conventional MRD assessment. According to Quest, the test delivers comparable sensitivity to next-generation sequencing methods at a fraction of the cost.
“Our Flow Cytometry MRD for Myeloma test harnesses cutting-edge science and technology to deliver ultrasensitive insights from a noninvasive blood test, thereby improving care and value for patients and the healthcare system,” says Yuri Fesko, MD, senior vice president and chief medical officer at Quest Diagnostics, in a release.
Enhanced Specimen Stability and Accessibility
The test features five-day specimen stability, compared to three or fewer days for conventional flow cytometry methods, according to a release from Quest Diagnostics. This extended stability supports access when specimen transport to laboratories takes several days.
Unlike next-generation sequencing methods that require a pre-treatment baseline sample for ongoing monitoring, the Quest test can be used when a baseline aspirate sample is not available.
Multiple myeloma affects approximately 36,000 new patients annually in the US, with nearly 11,000 deaths per year, according to the American Cancer Society. The cancer involves dysregulated growth of plasma cells, leading to abnormal antibody creation affecting blood and bones. While incurable, myeloma can often be managed as a chronic condition using chemotherapy and personalized treatments guided by MRD monitoring.
Clinical Trial Applications
Beyond clinical care applications, the test is expected to serve as a response monitoring tool in clinical trials. In January 2026, the FDA provided draft guidance on using MRD as a primary endpoint in trials evaluating treatments for multiple myeloma patients to support accelerated approval.
“The enthusiastic response received at the recent American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and Exposition upon educating the medical community about the Quest Flow Cytometry MRD for Myeloma test made it clear to me that this assay has the potential to greatly improve the treatment paradigm,” says Timothy Looney, PhD, senior director of immuno-oncology at Quest Diagnostics, in a release.
The new test complements Quest’s oncology testing portfolio, which includes the Haystack MRD test for assessing MRD in solid tumor cancers, along with hematopathology and molecular oncology testing services.
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