Liquid Biopsy Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends 2024 to 2033

Liquid Biopsy Market Size and Growth 2024 to 2033

The global liquid biopsy market size is forecasted to worth from USD 9.86 billion in 2023 to USD 28.59 billion by 2033. It is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.23% from 2024 to 2033.

Liquid biopsy is a non-invasive diagnostic test that may find cancer and other diseases by examining ctDNA, CTCs, or other biomarkers in blood, urine, or other body fluids of a patient. Unlike traditional tissue biopsies-which rely on surgical procedures to obtain a sample-liquid biopsies can provide real-time insight into the genetic makeup of a tumor or disease without invasive techniques. This gives the possibility for early detection, monitoring treatment response, and detecting drug resistance.

The liquid biopsy market represents a number of products and services devised with a view to help in better diagnostics and management of cancer. It includes a range of advanced diagnostic tools that range from blood tests looking at circulating tumor DNA, RNA, and other biomarkers for the early stage detection and monitoring of cancers.

Some of the major trends in the market include the increasing demand for non-invasive diagnosis methods, the integration of next-generation sequencing technologies, and the increasing adoption of personalized medicine. This can be viewed against a background of growing demands to minimize time and cost from traditional tissue biopsies, coupled with efforts at improving diagnostic accuracy and providing real-time insights into tumor dynamics. Government initiatives and regulatory support for early cancer detection and precision medicine have also helped a lot to boost the growth of the liquid biopsy market.

• According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, a total of 32,814 lung biopsies were performed, averaging 1.7 biopsies per patient. Of all the procedures performed, 95% involved bronchoscopy and percutaneous approaches, while 46% of patients needed multiple biopsies prior to diagnosis. The choice of biopsy modalities could not appear to be predictable on a frequency basis alone.
• Overview Global cancer statistics are presented in 2021: 19.29 million new cases and 9.96 million deaths. Generally speaking, with tumors, early-stage diagnosis and treatment do make all the difference. Liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive technique that has been able to hold good prospects for the early detection of cancer through blood biomarkers, hence allowing timely intervention and improving five-year survival rates among early-stage patients.

Report Highlights

• North America has accounted highest revenue share of around 47.50% in 2023.
• Europe has held revenue share of 28.70% in 2023.
• By sample type, the blood segment has accounted revenue share of 72.10% in 2023.
• By end user, the hospitals and clinics segment has generated revenue share of 44.70% in 2023.
• By application, the cancer segment has captured revenue share of 87.10% in 2023.
• By technology, the NGS segment has generated revenue share of 64.20% in 2023.

Liquid Biopsy Market Growth Factors

• Increasing awareness of Cancer Early Detection: Liquid biopsy technologies benefit from the growing knowledge base about the importance of early cancer detection, both among health-care providers and patients. Public awareness campaigns on the benefits of using non-invasive diagnostic tools for better outcomes tend to raise the profile, thus encouraging the use of liquid biopsies as an integral part of cancer care.
• Diversification into molecular diagnostics: Improvements in technology with regard to molecular diagnostics - such as the development of NGS and more sophisticated bio-informatic analysis tools - have allowed liquid biopsies to attain even much higher levels of sensitivity and efficiency. These newer capabilities allow the detection of cancers at far earlier stages and provide highly specific genetic information useful for targeting personalized therapies.
• Integration with Personalized Medicine: Increased interest in personalized medicine significantly heightens demand in the Liquid Biopsy Market. Liquid biopsies permit continuous monitoring of cancer via blood samples against the real evolution of a tumor and its response to treatments. The integration finds its prime application in tailoring treatments to the individual patient, hence improving outcomes while avoiding unnecessary therapies.
• Government Regulations and Incentives: Government policies and regulatory frameworks that support the use of liquid biopsy technologies have a positive impact on the market. Considering that liquid biopsies are gaining the trust of regulatory agencies as a diagnostic tool, the time for their approval is speedily reducing, and more recognition of this technology is observed in clinical practices. As much as incentives toward the early detection of cancer and personalized treatment exist, the adoption rates for solutions related to liquid biopsy would be encouraged.
• Increasing prevalence of cancer: Growing cancer prevalence globally boosts demand for advanced diagnostic tools like liquid biopsies. Due to the ever-increasing rates of cancer, there is an emerging need for rapid, non-invasive, and reliable diagnostic techniques, hence driving the Liquid Biopsy Market.

Liquid Biopsy Market Trends

• Expansion of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Technologies: The adoption of NGS in liquid biopsy testing has surged, particularly in response to the need for comprehensive genomic profiling. NGS enables the detection of multiple genetic mutations and alterations in a single test, making it a valuable tool for precision oncology. This trend is driven by the need for more accurate and detailed cancer diagnostics.
• Integration of AI and Machine Learning: Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are increasingly being integrated into liquid biopsy platforms to enhance data analysis and interpretation. These technologies help identify patterns in genetic data, predict treatment responses, and improve diagnostic accuracy, contributing to the development of more effective cancer treatment strategies.
• Rise of Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Tests: The development of multi-cancer early detection tests using liquid biopsy is a significant trend. These tests aim to detect multiple types of cancer from a single blood sample, offering a comprehensive screening solution. As these tests gain regulatory approval and clinical validation, they are expected to play a major role in early cancer detection and prevention.
• Emphasis on Companion Diagnostics: The Liquid Biopsy Market is seeing a shift towards the use of liquid biopsies as companion diagnostics in oncology. Companion diagnostics are tests used to determine the suitability of specific therapies for individual patients based on their genetic profile. This approach is crucial for the effective use of targeted therapies and immunotherapies, driving demand for liquid biopsy technologies.
• Growth of Integrated Diagnostic Solutions: The market is moving towards integrated diagnostic solutions, where liquid biopsy is combined with other diagnostic modalities, such as imaging and tissue biopsy, to provide a comprehensive view of a patient’s cancer. This holistic approach enhances diagnostic accuracy and helps clinicians make more informed treatment decisions.

Report Scope

Liquid Biopsy Market Dynamics

Drivers

Increased Funding and Investment

• One significant driver of the Liquid Biopsy Market is the increased funding and investment from both public and private sectors. Governments, research institutions, and private investors are allocating substantial resources to the development and commercialization of liquid biopsy technologies. This financial support is accelerating innovation and expanding the market’s reach.

Growing Demand for Non-Invasive Diagnostics

• The demand for non-invasive diagnostic methods is rising, as they offer a safer and more comfortable alternative to traditional tissue biopsies. Liquid biopsies, which require only a blood sample, are less invasive, reduce patient discomfort, and minimize the risk of complications, making them an attractive option for both patients and healthcare providers.

Restraints

High Costs and Reimbursement Challenges

• Despite the advantages of liquid biopsies, their high costs and reimbursement challenges remain significant restraints. The expense of advanced technologies like NGS and the variability in insurance coverage can limit access to these diagnostic tools, particularly in lower-income regions. Addressing these financial barriers is crucial for broader market adoption.

Regulatory and Validation Challenges

• The Liquid Biopsy Market faces challenges related to regulatory approval and clinical validation. Ensuring that liquid biopsy tests meet rigorous standards for accuracy and reliability is essential for gaining acceptance in clinical practice. The complexity of regulatory pathways and the need for extensive validation studies can slow down the market’s growth.

Opportunities

Emerging Technologies

• The integration of emerging technologies, such as AI-driven data analysis and advanced sequencing methods, presents significant opportunities in the Liquid Biopsy Market. These technologies can enhance the precision and utility of liquid biopsies, leading to more accurate diagnoses and better patient outcomes.

Expansion into New Cancer Types

• Liquid biopsy technology is expanding beyond its initial focus on lung cancer to include other cancer types, such as breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer. This diversification of applications creates opportunities for market growth and the development of new diagnostic tests.

Challenges

Supply Chain Disruptions

• The Liquid Biopsy Market faces challenges related to supply chain disruptions, particularly in the production and distribution of high-quality reagents and equipment. Ensuring a reliable supply of these critical components is essential for the consistent delivery of liquid biopsy services.

Ethical and Privacy Concerns

• The collection and analysis of genetic information through liquid biopsies raise ethical and privacy concerns. Ensuring that patient data is handled securely and that privacy is protected is a significant challenge for companies operating in this market. Addressing these concerns is critical for maintaining public trust and compliance with data protection regulations.

Liquid Biopsy Market Segment Analysis

Type Analysis

Circulating Tumor DNA (ctDNA): ctDNA is widely used in liquid biopsies to detect and analyze DNA fragments released by tumors into the bloodstream. It is primarily employed for early cancer detection, monitoring treatment responses, and detecting minimal residual disease. The non-invasive nature of ctDNA testing allows for frequent monitoring, providing critical insights into cancer progression and treatment efficacy.

Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs): CTC analysis in liquid biopsies offers valuable information on cancer metastasis and progression. By isolating and characterizing these cells, clinicians can gain a deeper understanding of the biology of the cancer, which aids in making informed treatment decisions and predicting patient outcomes.

Exosomes and Extracellular Vesicles: These small particles, released by cells into bodily fluids, carry proteins, RNA, and DNA, making them an important component of liquid biopsies. They provide an additional avenue for cancer detection and monitoring, offering insights into the molecular changes occurring within tumors.

RNA Biomarkers: RNA-based liquid biopsies target molecules like microRNAs or messenger RNAs, which can indicate the presence of cancer and provide insights into gene expression changes. This type of analysis is particularly useful for understanding the underlying mechanisms of cancer and tailoring personalized treatment strategies

Sample Type Analysis

Blood: The blood segment has accounted highest revenue share in 2023. Blood is the most common sample type used in liquid biopsies due to its minimally invasive nature and ease of repeat testing. Blood-based liquid biopsies are particularly effective for detecting ctDNA and CTCs, making them ideal for monitoring cancer over time and adjusting treatment strategies as needed.

Urine: Urine-based liquid biopsies are emerging as a non-invasive method for detecting and monitoring cancers, especially in the bladder and prostate. Analyzing DNA, RNA, and proteins in urine samples provides a convenient alternative to more invasive procedures, while still offering valuable diagnostic information.

Saliva: Saliva samples are increasingly being used in liquid biopsies for detecting oral and throat cancers. They can also be used to monitor certain biomarkers associated with other cancers, providing a non-invasive, easily accessible sample type for ongoing cancer monitoring.

Other Bodily Fluids: Liquid biopsies can also analyze cerebrospinal fluid (for brain and spinal cancers) and pleural effusion (for lung cancer), offering targeted insights into cancers in specific parts of the body. These samples provide crucial information for diagnosing and managing cancers that affect the central nervous system and respiratory system.

Clinical Application Analysis

Early Cancer Detection: Liquid biopsies are increasingly used for the early detection of various cancers, offering the potential to diagnose cancer at a more treatable stage. This application is particularly crucial for detecting cancers that are difficult to identify through traditional methods, improving survival rates by catching the disease early.

Monitoring Treatment Response: Liquid biopsies allow for real-time monitoring of how well a patient is responding to treatment by tracking changes in tumor DNA or RNA. This application helps clinicians adjust treatment plans promptly, improving patient outcomes by ensuring therapies remain effective.

Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) Detection: After treatment, liquid biopsies are used to detect minimal residual disease, which refers to small numbers of cancer cells that may remain and could lead to relapse. Detecting MRD helps in assessing the risk of cancer recurrence and deciding on further treatment, ensuring comprehensive care.

Prognosis and Disease Progression: Liquid biopsies provide valuable information about the likely course of the disease, helping clinicians predict outcomes and plan appropriate interventions. By monitoring the molecular changes in a patient's cancer, liquid biopsies aid in tailoring long-term management strategies.

End User Analysis

Hospitals and Clinics: The hospitals and clinics segment has captured 44.70% revenue share in 2023. Hospitals and clinics are the primary users of liquid biopsy technologies, employing these tests for early cancer detection, monitoring treatment response, and guiding therapeutic decisions. The increasing adoption of liquid biopsies in clinical settings is driven by their non-invasive nature and the detailed molecular insights they provide.

Research and Academic Institutes: The research and academic institutes segment has generated 32.60% revenue share in 2023. These institutions use liquid biopsies for cancer research, particularly in studying the molecular mechanisms of cancer, identifying new biomarkers, and developing new therapeutic approaches. Research applications of liquid biopsies are crucial for advancing personalized medicine.

Diagnostic Laboratories: Independent diagnostic laboratories play a significant role in processing liquid biopsy samples, and providing testing services for hospitals, clinics, and research institutes. The growth of this segment is supported by the increasing demand for specialized testing and advanced diagnostic capabilities.

Biopharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies: These companies use liquid biopsy technologies in drug development, particularly for identifying potential therapeutic targets, monitoring treatment efficacy during clinical trials, and developing companion diagnostics.

Liquid Biopsy Market Regional Analysis

The liquid biopsy market is segmented into various regions, including Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, and LAMEA. Here is a brief overview of each region:

Why is North America dominate the liquid biopsy market?

The global liquid biopsy market size is growing from USD 4.68 billion in 2023 to USD 13.58 billion by 2033 and growing at a CAGR of 11.30% from 2024 to 2033. North America dominates the Liquid Biopsy Market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and high prevalence of cancer, particularly in the U.S. and Canada. The region leads in the adoption of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, including liquid biopsies, driven by significant investments in research and development, and favorable regulatory environments. The presence of major market players and the increasing demand for personalized medicine are also key factors fueling growth in this region. Additionally, government initiatives to promote early cancer detection and the growing awareness among healthcare providers and patients further accelerate market expansion.

Europe liquid biopsy market is growing rapidly

The Europe liquid biopsy market size was valued at USD 2.83 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach around USD 8.21 billion by 2033. Europe market is growing rapidly, propelled by a strong focus on innovation and the widespread adoption of personalized medicine. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are at the forefront of integrating liquid biopsy technologies into clinical practice, supported by robust healthcare systems and government initiatives aimed at improving cancer diagnosis and treatment. The region's emphasis on reducing healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes through early detection and minimally invasive diagnostic methods also contributes to the market's expansion.

Why is Asia-Pacific experiencing significant growth in the liquid biopsy market?

The Asia-Pacific liquid biopsy market size was estimated at USD 1.69 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit around USD 4.89 billion by 2033. The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing significant growth in the Liquid Biopsy Market, driven by increasing cancer incidence, rising healthcare expenditures, and improving access to advanced medical technologies. Countries such as China, Japan, and India are key contributors to market growth, with substantial investments in healthcare infrastructure and growing adoption of liquid biopsy technologies for early cancer detection. Government initiatives focused on expanding healthcare access and the rise of medical tourism in the region further support the market's development. The region's large and aging population also creates a substantial demand for innovative cancer diagnostics.

LAMEA liquid biopsy market is expanding

The LAMEA liquid biopsy market size was estimated at USD 0.66 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit around USD 1.92 billion by 2033. The Liquid Biopsy Market in LAMEA is expanding, albeit at a slower pace, due to varying levels of healthcare infrastructure and economic development across the region. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and Mexico are increasingly adopting liquid biopsy technologies, driven by rising cancer rates and improving healthcare access. The Middle East, with its substantial investments in healthcare infrastructure and advanced medical technologies, also shows promising growth. In Africa, while the market is still in its nascent stages, international partnerships and funding initiatives are gradually improving access to innovative diagnostic tools, including liquid biopsies, across the region.

Liquid Biopsy Market Top Companies

• Guardant Health
• Illumina, Inc.
• Biocept, Inc.
• Qiagen N.V.
• Roche Diagnostics
• Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.
• Foundation Medicine, Inc.
• Freenome, Inc.
• Exact Sciences Corporation
• Grail, Inc.
• Natera, Inc.
• Menarini Silicon Biosystems
• Agena Bioscience, Inc.
• Epic Sciences, Inc.
• Personal Genome Diagnostics, Inc.

Among the emerging players in the liquid biopsy market, Freenome, Inc. is leveraging advanced multi-omics technology to develop early cancer detection tests that integrate genomic, proteomic, and epigenomic data, pushing the boundaries of non-invasive diagnostics. Epic Sciences, Inc. focuses on novel liquid biopsy technologies that analyze circulating tumor cells (CTCs) to provide real-time insights into cancer metastasis and treatment response.

Leading companies like Guardant Health drive market growth through their comprehensive liquid biopsy platforms, which are widely used for early detection and monitoring of various cancers. Illumina, Inc. continues to integrate cutting-edge sequencing technologies into its liquid biopsy solutions, facilitating the development of precision oncology treatments. Innovations and strategic collaborations, such as those seen with Grail, Inc.'s multi-cancer early detection tests and Foundation Medicine, Inc.'s partnership with biopharmaceutical companies, underscore their leadership in the rapidly evolving market.

CEO Statements

Helmy Eltoukhy, Chairman and Co-CEO of Guardant Health:

• "Our updated test provides much broader gene panel coverage and analyzes both currently actionable and emerging biomarkers not available on any other liquid biopsy test. This upgrade will mark the beginning of a new chapter of tumor profiling that will be as profound as the original introduction of comprehensive profiling, informing cancer care teams about the optimal treatment strategy for their patients by giving them many more precision treatment options that can help improve their outcomes."

Michael Nall, President and CEO of Biocept:

• "The launch of our liquid biopsy kit strategy has been a priority for Biocept, and we are excited to now have the ability to leverage the value of our patents as we enable laboratories around the world to utilize our proprietary Target Selector technologies."

Recent Developments

Key players in the liquid biopsy market are instrumental in driving advancements in cancer diagnostics and personalized medicine. They are at the forefront of developing innovative solutions that enhance the accuracy and efficiency of cancer detection and monitoring. Notable developments in the market include:

• In August 2024, Labcorp received de novo marketing authorization from the FDA for PGDx elio plasma focus Dx, the first and only kitted, pan-solid tumor liquid biopsy test in the industry. This next-generation sequencing-based diagnostic device allows laboratories to perform genomic profiling when tissue samples are limited or unavailable, enhancing oncologists' ability to make timely treatment decisions with more accurate clinical assessments.
• In March 2024, Bio-Rad Laboratories launched validated antibodies specifically designed for rare cell and circulating tumor cell (CTC) enumeration, advancing the capabilities of liquid biopsy applications. These antibodies are critical for improving the detection and analysis of CTCs and enhancing the precision of cancer diagnostics and monitoring.
• In January 2024, Veracyte enhanced its AI-driven Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) testing capabilities by acquiring C2i Genomics, showcasing its commitment to advancing precision oncology and improving cancer detection and monitoring with cutting-edge technologies.

These developments underscore a significant expansion in the liquid biopsy industry, driven by strategic acquisitions and groundbreaking projects. Companies are focusing on enhancing cancer diagnostics through advanced technologies, improving the precision of detection and monitoring, and broadening the applications of liquid biopsy in personalized medicine.

Market Segmentation

By Type

• Circulating Tumor DNA (ctDNA)
• Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs)
• Exosomes and Extracellular Vesicles
• Cell-free DNA
• Other Circulating Biomarkers

By Sample Type

• Blood
• Urine
• Saliva
• Other Bodily Fluids

By Product & Service

• Assay Kits
• Instruments
• Services

By Technology

• Multi-gene-parallel Analysis (NGS)
• Single Gene Analysis (PCR Microarrays)

By Clinical Application 

• Early Cancer Detection
• Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) Detection
• Prognosis and Disease Progression

By Application

• Cancer
  • Lung Cancer
  • Breast Cancer
  • Colorectal Cancer
  • Prostate Cancer
  • Melanoma Cancer
  • Other Cancers
• Non-cancer
  • Non-invasive Prenatal Testing
  • Organ Transplantation
  • Infectious Disease Testing

By End-Users

• Hospitals and Clinics
• Research and Academic Institutes
• Diagnostic Laboratories

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• APAC
• LAMEA