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process, although for me it is just another example of the innate wisdom our bodies possess.
Tumor Markers
It has long been known that malignant tumors are associated with abnormal production of proteins, enzymes, and circulating hormones, but only recently has it been found that some of these substances can act as tumor markers. A tumor marker is basically a substance that is synthesized by the tumor and released into the circulation of patients with cancer. It's important to know if a cancer is excreting specific tumor markers so that the patient and doctor can assess treatment options and values. Following are a few of the more common tumor markers (see table 9.1).
Table 9.1
Some Tumor Markers and Their Clinical Use
Marker
Type of Tumor Identified
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)
Various carcinomas: colorectal, breast, thyroid, prostate cancer; the most commonly used tumor marker
CA-125
Nonmucinous ovarian carcinomas, various other carcinomas
CA19-9
Gastrointestinal and colorectal carcinomas
CA15-3
Metastatic breast cancer, ovarian cancer
Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP)
Prostate carcinomas
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)
Prostate carcinomas
Ovarian cancer antigen (OCA)
Ovarian carcinomas
Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)
Trophoblastic tumors, ovarian, breast, liver, lung carcinomas
Plasminogen activators (PA)
Prostate cancer
Alkaline phosphatase
Bone tumors and bone metastases
Ferritin
Liver tumors
(Continued)

(Table continued on next page)

 
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