Monitoring
Tumor Markers
Tumor markers measure substances in increased amounts
in the body that may indicate the presence of cancer.
Examples of some common tumor markers are:
- PSA for prostate cancer
- CA15-3 for breast cancer
- CEA for colon cancer
Doctors most frequently use tumor markers to monitor the effectiveness
of treatment and help detect early cancer recurrences after treatment
has been completed.
Tumor markers are also used in:
- Cancer screening (finding cancer early)
- Diagnosis (making sure it is cancer)
- Prognosis (predicting how the cancer will change over time)
- Identifying patients who are eligible for certain cancer treatments
Not all cancers will have tumor markers. Ask your health care team if
a tumor marker is associated with your cancer. If so, know what your
specific levels are and how to interpret them.
There are a number of other tests your doctor may use to evaluate your
cancer. Find out more about these diagnostic
tests.
UNDERSTANDING CANCER
TREATING CANCER WITH CHEMOTHERAPY
CHEMOTHERAPY SIDE EFFECTS
TREATING CANCER IN OTHER WAYS
TRACKING YOUR TEST RESULTS
UNDERSTANDING INSURANCE AND TAX ISSUES: INSURANCE TIPS
WEB RESOURCES AND ORGANIZATIONS
TOOLS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR CANCER INFORMATION
FOR CAREGIVERS
GLOSSARY OF CANCER TERMS
REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS
FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
|
 |
|
