May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Cancer Tumor Marker Tests - Are they definite indication for cancer?
Tumor Marker Tests - Are they definite indication for cancer? |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: Hi There A few months ago my wife had a scan and a cyst was found on ger ovary. A week ago she had a blood tumour marker test , the consultant said if he had had concerns about the test result he would call her. This week my wife received an appointment for a follow up appointment in 6 weeks time. We are very worried about. Does a tumour market test indicate cancer and can it identify benign tumours as well ? What can i say to reassure my wife about this situation. Dear Arlene: I do understand your wife's concern. Tumor markers are substances that are produced by the body in response to cancer growth or by the cancer tissue itself and that may be detected in blood, urine, or tissue samples. The goal is to be able to screen for and diagnose cancer early. There are different tumor markers for different type of cancer. Though elevated levels of tumor marker may indicate presence of cancer, the markers may also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions, thus tumor markers alone are not diagnostic for cancer. |
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 01 February 2012 ) |
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