Scientists Say Blood Test Could Predict Breast Cancer Relapse Before Tumors Form

WASHINGTON D.C. (CBS) -- British scientists say they've developed a blood test for breast cancer that could predict a relapse months before tumors form again.

Researchers specifically looked for microscopic pieces of DNA linked to the cancerous tumors that were surgically removed.

They say normal imaging can only detect cancerous cells after they've grown.

"Such unprecedented early prediction could allow for intervention before the reappearance of cancer in high-risk patients," researchers say.

The study was published in Science Translational Medicine.