Cancer Markers

View Details: Tumor Markers

Cancer markers, also known as tumor markers, are substances produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to cancer. These markers can be proteins, hormones, or other molecules found in blood, urine, or tissues. They are used in various ways, including: 1. **Diagnosis**: Certain cancer markers can help in the initial diagnosis of specific types of cancer. 2. **Monitoring Treatment**: Levels of cancer markers can be measured over time to assess the effectiveness of treatment and detect any recurrence of the disease. 3. **Prognosis**: Some markers can provide information about the likely course of the disease and help predict patient outcomes. Common cancer markers include prostate-specific antigen (PSA) for prostate cancer, CA-125 for ovarian cancer, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) for colorectal cancer. However, it is important to note that elevated levels of these markers do not definitively indicate cancer, as they can also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions.