Reasons for Elevated Tumor Markers
When cancer occurs, the body produces a substance called a “tumor marker.” It may be a byproduct of cancer cells or the body’s reaction to the tumor. Most tumor markers are proteins that can be detected in blood or urine.
Tumor markers can be produced by cancer cells but can also be produced by normal cells. Sometimes, non-cancerous conditions can cause tumor markers to rise. Furthermore, not all cancer patients will have elevated tumor markers. For this reason, doctors regularly use only a small number of them.
What are the uses of tumor markers?
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Can be used for cancer screening: Cancer screening refers to testing for cancer before symptoms appear, with the aim of detecting and early discovery of initial cancer. The original purpose of tumor markers was to help doctors detect cancer early. Some markers can be applied in screening and detection.
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Can determine the efficacy of cancer treatment: One of the most important uses of tumor markers is to monitor a patient’s progress during treatment. If the tumor marker level decreases as treatment proceeds, it indicates the treatment is effective. However, if it continues to rise, the treatment method may not be working, and the doctor needs to consider changing to a new therapy.