Abstract: A database for predicting clinical outcomes based upon quantitative tumor burden in lymph node samples from an individual is provided. The database comprises data sets from a plurality of individuals. The data sets include clinical outcome data and data regarding number of lymph nodes evaluated, maximum number of biomarker detected in any single node, median normalized expression levels detected across all evaluated lymph nodes and the maximum normalized expression levels detected in any evaluated lymph nodes and the database also includes stratified risk categories based upon recursive partitioning of data. A system for predicting clinical outcomes based upon quantitative tumor burden in lymph node samples from an individual is provided which includes the database linked to a data processor, an input interface and an output interface.

Abstract: Methods, kits, compositions and systems for detecting the level of GCC encoding mRNA present in a sample using quantitative (q) RT-PCR are disclosed. The methods, kits, compositions and systems may be used to detect metastasis in patients diagnosed with primary colorectal, gastric or esophageal cancer, to predict the risk of occurrence of relapse in patients diagnosed with primary colorectal, gastric or esophageal cancer, and to diagnose Barrett's esophagus.