Liver under observation
Risk groups (cirrhosis, HBV/HCV) are the main recipients: the combination of AFP + ultrasound misses a minimum of tumors and is inexpensive. For testicular tumors, a marker (with β-hCG and LDH) determines the type, stage and controls chemotherapy. Moderate increases are given by liver regeneration and pregnancy - there is no need for panic, just interpretation is needed.
When is it appointed?
- observation after tumor treatment is the main role of markers;
- assessment of formations (ovaries - CA-125+HE4/ROMA; liver - AFP);
- prostate cancer screening - PSA by age and risk;
- monitoring the effectiveness of therapy over time;
- differential diagnosis in combination with visualization.
How to understand tumor markers correctly
Markers are a dynamic tool, not a “cancer test”: most grow in benign conditions, but early tumors may not produce them. The strength of markers is in observation after treatment (growth outstrips images by months) and in the assessment of specific formations in conjunction with ultrasound/CT. The exception is PSA: an established screening for prostate cancer. Prescription and interpretation - with a doctor; “a preventive panel of all markers” without indications creates anxiety, not benefit.
