Tumor Markers Flashcards
proteins that are produced by the body in response to cancer growth or by the cancer tissue itself and certain benign (noncancerous) conditions
tumor marker
What are tumor markers mainly used for in patients who have already been diagnosed with cancer?
monitor response to treatment and return of cancer after treatment
T/F Levels of tumor markers tend to get higher than normal only when there’s a large amount of cancer present
true
Tumor marker primarily used for liver, testicular, and ovarian cancer
AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)
Levels high in some types of germ cell tumors (choriocarcinoma and testicular)
Beta-hCG: (Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin)
First developed to detect colorectal cancer but most often used in pancreatic cancer. Can also be used for gallbladder and bile duct cancers
CA 19.9
Used for detection of epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, peritoneal cancers
CA-125
Can be high in uterine fibroids and endometriosis
CA-125
Hormone produced by Parafollicular C cells in the thyroid gland. Normally helps regulate blood calcium levels
calcitonin
Marker for medullary thyroid cancer
calcitonin
Tumor marker used for colorectal and breast cancer
CEA (Carcinoembryonic antigen)
Marker used for prostate cancer
PSA (Prostate-specific antigen)
Only marker used to screen for a common type of cancer
PSA
