biomarker

[ bahy-oh-mahr-ker ]

noun

1. a distinct biochemical, genetic, or molecular characteristic or substance that is an indicator of a particular biological condition or process:

   a blood test to measure protein biomarkers for cancer.

biomarker

/ ˈbaɪəʊˌmɑːkə /

noun

1. another name for biological marker

Word History and Origins

Origin of biomarker¹

First recorded in 1970–75; bio- ( def ) + marker ( def )

Example Sentences

There is a sense of urgency in the medical community to classify a positive biomarker test as “Stage One Alzheimer’s Disease.”

From Los Angeles Times

Such worries have become more widespread recently as the biomarker blood tests, marketed by companies like Quest and Labcorp, became commercially available so that patients could pay for them out of pocket.

From Los Angeles Times

More than 40% of individuals over 80 who take a biomarker test for Alzheimer’s will test positive.

From Los Angeles Times

A positive blood biomarker test could also lead to significant mental and financial damage, with unnecessary and expensive procedures like an MRI, a PET scan or a spinal fluid test.

From Los Angeles Times

For now, the biomarker test should be taken only if you are truly showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

From Los Angeles Times