After lipid profile, routine and culture tests, glucose tolerance test as well as polygraph tests, let’s understand more about Tumour Marker Tests — the whys, whens, and hows of it.
According to the National Cancer Institute, a tumour marker test measures the number of substances called tumour markers in tissue, blood, urine, or other body fluids. “Most tumour markers are proteins made by both normal cells and cancer cells, but they are made in higher amounts by cancer cells. Genetic changes in tumour tissue, such as gene mutations, patterns of gene expression, and other changes in tumour DNA, are also being used as tumour markers,” it read.
According to Dr Atul Narayankar, consultant medical oncologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, a tumour marker test is usually done with other tests, such as biopsies or imaging, to help diagnose some types of cancer. “Tumour marker tests help to detect specific substances that may indicate a cancer. This test helps to monitor cancer growth and development,” said Dr Narayankar.
The types of tumour marker tests include Prostate-specific antigen (PSA), Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP), CA 125, Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), CA 19-9, CA 15-3, CA 27-29, Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and Bladder tumour marker studies.
How do tests detect tumours? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
Notably, this list is not comprehensive as new tumour markers frequently become available and may not be included.
“So, these tests reveal the disease’s presence, type, and progression,” said Dr Narayankar.
For example, high levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) may indicate prostate cancer. ”
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Apart from this, a tumour marker is also used to determine the chances of recovery, look for cancer recurrence, and understand if the treatment plan is working,” said Dr Narayankar.
The test is done to select the right treatment for your type of cancer. According to Dr Narayankar, tumour markers that help plan treatment are also known as biomarkers.
“One will need this test if he/she is treated for cancer, has finished cancer treatment, has a chance of suffering from cancer due to family history, or is detected with other conditions that are known to cause cancer. You need to consult the doctor for these tests as per guidance,” said Dr Narayankar.
*DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.*
