Abstract

SANCHEZ-MUNOZ, A. et al. Limitations to the use of serum tumor markers in oncologic practice. Oncología (Barc.) [online]. 2005, vol.28, n.9, pp.39-43. ISSN 0378-4835.

Serum tumor markers are often used for the evaluation of the response and follow-up of oncologic patiets after different dispensed therapies. We report three clinicl cases of false elevation of CA 15-3, CA 12-5 and CA 19-9 serum tumor markers during the follow-up of patients diagnosed and treated for breast cancer, ovarian cancer and colorectal cancer respectively. The limitations to their use in oncologic practice are discussed in relation with sensitivity and specificity problems, as well as their usefulness in the prognosis, survival and quality of life considerations of the patients.

Keywords : Serum tumor markers; Surveillance; Treatment monitoring.

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