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Looking for recent experience with the Galleri early detection test

Posted by mec151 @mec151, Sep 3, 2025

I am looking for anyone who has had experience with early detection tests. I have a nodule that currently does not meet the size criteria for biopsy although I meet two other criteria. The advice is to wait 12 months and have another CT scan. I do not feel at all comfortable with this approach. Was wondering if anyone had a Galleri test in the past year. Allegedly the technology was developed with support from the Mayo Clinic. Thanks.

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drgnldy | @drgnldy | Jul 27 4:32pm
In reply to @markymarkfl "I am a Galleri failure story :( The Galleri test's sensitivity is different for different types..." + (show)
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I am a Galleri failure story 🙁

The Galleri test's sensitivity is different for different types of cancer, but for pancreatic cancer (PDAC) I hear it's not the best. If positive, you probably have cancer; if not, it doesn't mean you don't.

After Whipple surgery to remove a tumor from the head of my pancreas (and also remove gall bladder and duodenum and lymph nodes), the surgeon declared me clean. Less than 4 months later, MRI and rising tumor marker (CA19-9) suggested the main tumor was coming back fast. Biopsy couldn't find it and Galleri didn't detect it. Tumor board decided to do another MRI in 6 weeks, by which time it was too late -- confirmed metastatic.

I have zero medical training, but waiting 12 months for another CT is crazy. I'd ask for 3-month intervals until you see how much the nodules are changing in that interval, to establish a "rate of change" baseline for future scans. If there's no change after two 3-month intervals, then it's probably a very slow-grower -- maybe not as big an issue to expand the watch interval after that.

But similarly, depending on where the nodules are (what type of cancer it might be), see if you can find out what tumor markers would identify it, and try to get regular blood tests for them. Example markers for different cancers are PSA, CEA, CA19-9, CA125, CA72, etc. These are usually pretty cheap, and you could repeat them every month to get your current baseline and identify changes in the future.

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@markymarkfl
I'm so sorry to hear that you have such a serious diagnosis.
My understanding was that they won't even administer the Galleri test until your 3 years cancer free. That's interesting that you were given it so soon after your diagnosis.
Wishing you a healthful outcome.

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drgnldy | @drgnldy | Jul 27 4:33pm

The Galleri test saved my life. You can scroll down to see my comment. Good luck!

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michelegran | @michelegran | 4 days ago

You're right to question this approach!! Do not wait - get a second or third opinion on treatment. Learn from my sad experience, please. In 2023, participated in the Mayo Pathway research for the early blood test now called Galleri. A cancer "signal" was detected 10 days after submitting my blood sample. An 8 mm squamous cell was biopsied and found to be cancerous. CT and PET scans at 3 and 6 months showed no metastasis. So Mayo discharged me from oncology. I was told to "go live my life", which I did with total trust in the Mayo Clinic. Two Mayo Executive Health doctors subsequently denied my requests for repeat blood tests or CT/PET scans. In 2025, an unrelated MRI by an orthopedics provider revealed suspicious shading in my abdomen. I eas diagnosed with Stage 4 anal cancer shortly afterwards. I've since completed chemotherapy with debilitating side effects and now have developed colitis on immunotherapy. My life has changed radically. It didn't have to be this way. I urge you to find doctors NOW who will follow ypu closely and order the tests you need to avoid my fate. Do on't trust any institution that dismisses your fears. I no longer trust anyone with my life. I research and question every recommendation and action. Advocate for yourself and trust your intuition. Save yourself from metastatic cancer. Good luck! You can do this.

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