Method of early lung cancer detection via sputum induction and analysis of sputum to detect cancer associated substances

摘要

A method of early detection of lung cancer is disclosed. The method comprises using uridine 5'-triphosphate (UTP) or related compounds to induce a sputum sample from the lungs of a subject, then using labeled reagents to detect substances in the sputum whose presence is associated with the development of lung cancer. Methods to detect cancer-associated substances in the sputum include monoclonal antibody immunostaining to detect cancer associated cellular antigens, or PCR analysis to amplify and detect cancer associated gene mutations. The UTP sputum induction agent is administered to subject by means of a liquid solution, a liquid suspension in nebulized form or by means of a dry power inhalant.