It is important to measure the successes or losses in regard to treatment-associated
tumor response. Evaluating tumor markers in the blood or tumor imagery
provides a basis for calculating regression of the disease. In addition,
tumor markers provide direction for introducing other therapies if
failures are evidenced.
Table 1: Type of Cancers and the Tumor Marker Used for Assessment
Type of Cancer Tumor Marker Blood Test
Ovarian cancer CA 125, CK-BB
Prostate cancer PSA, PAP, prolactin, testosterone
Breast cancer CA 27.29, CEA, alkaline phosphatase, and prolactin (or CA
15-3 rather than the CA 27.29)
Colon, rectum, liver, stomach, and other organ cancers CEA, CA 19-9, AFP,
TPS, and GGTP
Pancreatic cancer CA 19.9, CEA, and GGTP
Leukemia, lymphoma, and Hodgkin's disease LDH, CBC with differential, immune
cell differentiation and leukemia profile
It is also important to evaluate the effectiveness of immune-boosting
therapies and guard against anemia and therapeutic toxicities. At a minimum,
a monthly complete blood chemistry (CBC) test that includes assessment
of hematocrit, hemoglobin, and liver and kidney function should be done
in all cancer patients undergoing treatment.
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