TUMOUR MARKERS AND CANCER OF UNKNOWN PRIMARY Flashcards
What is the tumour marker for hepatocellular carcinoma?
Alpha fetoprotein
Also tumour marker for germ cell tumour (would have high hCG too)
What are the tumour markers for pancreatic cancer?
Ca 19-9
Limited specificity
(Also Tumour M2-PK)
What is the tumour marker for ovarian cancer?
Ca-125
What are the tumour markers for germ cell tumours?
Alpha fetoprotein
hCG
What is the tumour marker for prostate cancer?
PSA
What is the tumour marker for colorectal cancer?
CEA (Carcinoembryonic antigen)
Low specificity
What cancer(s) is alpha fetoprotein (AFP) a tumour marker for?
Hepatocellular carcinoma
Germ cell tumours
What cancer(s) is PSA a tumour marker for?
Prostate cancer
What cancer(s) is CEA a tumour marker for?
Colorectal cancer - mainly
Cervical cancer
Lung cancer
Ovarian cancer
Breast cancer
Urinary tract cancer
What cancer(s) is Ca 19-9 a tumour marker for?
Pancreatic cancer - mainly
Colorectal
GI
What investigations would you do for someone who presents with signs of cancer of unknown primary?
Chest X-ray
Tumour markers
Myeloma screen - if there are lytic bone lesions
Endoscopy - if there are symptoms
PET scan
Remember that we perform investigations only if:
– the results are likely to affect a treatment decision
– the patient understands why the investigations are being carried out
– the patient understands the potential benefits and risks of investigation and treatment and
– the patient is prepared to accept treatment
What are the different levels of performance status with regard to cancer patients?
0 - Fully active, able to carry on all pre-disease performance without restriction
1 - Restricted in physically strenuous activity but ambulatory and able to carry out light work
2 - Ambulatory, unable to carry out any work activities, up and about more than 50% of waking hours
3 - Capable of only limited self care, confined to bed or chair more than 50% of waking hours
4 - Completely disabled, totally confined to bed or chair
