Tumor Marker Testing Overview
Tumor marker tests are valuable tools for assessing cancer risk, aiding in initial diagnoses, guiding treatment, and monitoring effectiveness. They can help predict recovery and detect potential recurrence. However, they are not definitive, as elevated levels can occur in individuals without cancer or in those with certain non-cancerous conditions. Additionally, some tumors do not produce detectable markers, and others may only show increased levels as the cancer progresses.
Cancer Statistics
According to the CDC, in 2019, there were 1,752,735 new cancer cases and 599,589 cancer-related deaths. Projections for 2023 estimate around 2 million new diagnoses and approximately 610,000 deaths.
How Tumor Marker Testing Works
These tests analyze specific body samples—such as blood, urine, or tissue—for proteins and substances associated with cancer. While they can indicate the presence of cancer, further testing and biopsies are required for a definitive diagnosis.
What do Tumor Markers Tests measure?
Tumor marker tests measure specific substances in the blood that are associated with various cancers. These markers can indicate the presence of cancer, assess treatment effectiveness, and monitor disease progression. If initial results suggest a concern, further testing of tissues or body fluids may be necessary for a more accurate diagnosis. Anchor Medical Center provides a variety of blood testing panels tailored to different cancers, including prostate, breast, and colorectal cancers.
AFP
This is a single-marker test measuring AFP. Elevated AFP levels are found in the majority of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and non-seminomatous testicular carcinoma.
Results: Typically available within 1-6 business days after sample receipt.
Note: This service is self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.
Cancer Panel, Female Extended
The Female Extended Cancer Panel takes an investigative approach to your health, further assessing potential areas where cancer may be present. This panel analyzes tumor markers that help detect liver, pancreatic, gastrointestinal, breast, and ovarian cancers.
Biomarkers
AFP
B-hCG
CA 125
CA 15-3
CA 19-9
CEA
Results: Typically available within 1-6 business days after sample receipt.
Note: This service is self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.
Cancer Panel, Male Extended
The Male Extended Cancer Panel takes an investigative approach to your health, further assessing potential areas where cancer may be present. This panel analyzes tumor markers that help detect liver, testicular, pancreatic, gastrointestinal, and prostate cancers.
Biomarkers
AFP
CA 19-9
CEA
Free PSA
Total PSA
hCG
Results: Typically available within 1-6 business days after sample receipt.
Note: This service is self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.
CA 125
This is a single-marker test measuring CA 125. CA 125 is elevated in the majority of women with carcinoma of the ovary.
Results: Typically available within 1-6 business days after sample receipt.
Note: This service is self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.
CA 15-3
This is a single-marker test measuring CA 15-3. CA 15-3 may be useful in monitoring response to therapy in patients with metastatic breast cancer.
Results: Typically available within 1-6 business days after sample receipt.
Note: This service is self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.
CA 19-9
This is a single-marker test measuring CA 19-9. CA 19-9 is used to monitor colorectal, gastrointestinal, liver, and pancreatic malignancies.
Results: Typically available within 1-6 business days after sample receipt.
Note: This service is self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.
CEA
This is a single-marker test measuring carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). Elevated CEA levels are seen in breast, colon, lung, pancreas, rectum, and stomach cancers.
Results: Typically available within 1-6 business days after sample receipt.
Note: This service is self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.
hCG (Testicular Tumor)
This is a single-marker test measuring hCG. hCG levels can be elevated with pathologic conditions such as testicular neoplasm, choriocarcinoma, and hydatiform mole.
Results: Typically available within 1-6 business days after sample receipt.
Note: This service is self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.
PSA Free and Total (Prostate Cancer)
This test measures free and total prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
Results: Typically available within 1-6 business days after sample receipt.
Note: This service is self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.
Tumor Markers Testing: Diagnosis and Assessment
Tumor marker testing is one component in the diagnostic process for cancer. To reach a definitive diagnosis, a thorough approach is essential, including a physical examination, health and family history, a list of symptoms, and additional blood tests. Depending on the findings, further diagnostics and possible biopsies may also be required to confirm the presence of cancer.
Treatment Plans for Cancer
Lifestyle and nutrition play a crucial role in health and wellness, potentially preventing some cancers and supporting patients during treatment. Cancer treatment options vary based on the type and stage of cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplant.
Complementary approaches, alongside conventional treatments, can help reduce risk and support recovery. These may include:
- Diet: Focus on low-inflammatory foods (like salmon), plenty of fruits, vegetables, high-fiber grains, and eliminate sugars, processed foods, and alcohol.
- Environmental Awareness: Identify and avoid food and environmental sensitivities and toxins.
- Gut Health: Support with probiotics, curcumin, and resveratrol.
- Exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity.
- Sleep: Ensure adequate rest.
- Stress Reduction: Implement stress management techniques.
- Support Systems: Engage in group support and counseling.
- Hygiene: Maintain hygiene practices to prevent infections.
References
- https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/diagnosis/tumor-markers-fact-sheet#:~:text=A%20tumor%20marker%20is%20anything,it%20is%20responding%20to%20treatment.
- https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/data/index.htm
- https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/common.html
- https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/tumor-marker-tests/#:~:text=Tumor%20marker%20tests%20are%20most,cancer%20is%20likely%20to%20return
- https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/diagnosing-cancer/tests-and-procedures/tumor-marker-tests
- https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/diagnosis
- https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/functional-medicine-approaches-to-cancer-care/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4818066/
- https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/survivors/patients/treatments.htm