Ovarian cancer tumor markers provide important clues to physicians during the diagnosis and follow-up processes. Markers such as CA-125 and HE4 stand out in the evaluation of ovarian-origin masses. Screening tests help determine the stage of the disease and the response to treatment.
Ovarian cancer tumor markers not only help detect the disease but are also effective in monitoring the success of the treatment process. Decreased marker levels after surgery may indicate that the treatment is effective. However, in some cases, an increase in levels may be observed again, pointing to a risk of recurrence. Therefore, it is important to conduct regular tests in high-risk patients.
What Are the Tumor Markers for Ovarian Cancer?
Gynecological cancers are common diseases of the female reproductive system and can lead to serious consequences if not diagnosed early. The tumor markers used during the diagnostic process play a significant role in detecting the disease and monitoring the treatment. Especially in ovarian cancers, identifying the right markers enables effective management of the process.
Some biochemical substances measured through blood tests are evaluated within the scope of tumor testing. These tests reveal protein levels that indicate the activity of malignant cells. In the detection of malignant masses originating from the ovaries, such tests can be guiding.
The main tumor markers associated with ovarian cancer are:
Thanks to these markers, treatment can begin even in early-stage patients. This positively affects both the patient’s life expectancy and their response to treatment.
In high-risk patients, regular test monitoring plays a critical role in preventing recurrence in the later stages. Effective use of tumor markers is a vital step in the management of ovarian cancer.
Monitoring these markers is not limited to diagnosis; they are also used in assessing the response during the treatment process. Especially during the post-surgical and chemotherapy periods, changes in marker levels indicate the course of the disease.
Despite treatment, rising values may indicate the possibility of recurrence, and in this case, advanced imaging methods may be required. Considering all these processes, tumor markers guide clinical decisions in the fight against ovarian cancer, making patient follow-up systematic.
Which Tumor Tests Are Used in Ovarian Cancer Follow-Up?
After treatment for ovarian cancer, the patient’s condition should be monitored at regular intervals. During this follow-up, some tests are prioritized. Each test provides different data about the progression of the disease.
Regular monitoring of these tests helps detect the risk of possible recurrence early and saves time for the physician in planning treatment.
Tumor tests not only evaluate the success of the treatment process but also help detect newly developing risky conditions in advance. In cases with an aggressive course, the frequency of these tests may be increased.
Depending on the patient’s age, the tumor subtype, and previous treatment responses, the physician decides which markers to monitor more frequently. This personalized follow-up approach facilitates disease control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which tumor markers are used in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer?
The most commonly used tumor markers are CA-125 and HE4. In some cases, additional tests like AFP, hCG, and LDH may also be requested.
Does the CA-125 test always indicate ovarian cancer?
No. CA-125 can be elevated in many conditions; it may increase during menstruation, in endometriosis, or in some benign infections.
Are tumor markers sufficient in early-stage ovarian cancer?
They may not always be reliable in early stages. Therefore, they should be evaluated together with ultrasound and imaging methods.
Are tumor tests followed up after treatment?
Yes. A decrease in values is expected after treatment. An increase may indicate recurrence.
Why is the HE4 test used together with CA-125?
HE4 may provide more specific results than CA-125, especially in postmenopausal women. Evaluating them together increases diagnostic accuracy.
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