Why do I need a tumor marker test?
You may need a tumor marker test if you are currently being treated for cancer, have finished cancer treatment, or have a high risk of getting cancer because of family history or other reasons.
The type of test you get will depend on your health, health history, and symptoms you may have. Below are some of the most common types of tumor markers and what they are used for.
CA 125 (cancer antigen 125)
Tumor marker for:
ovarian cancer
Used to:
See if cancer treatment is working
See if cancer has come back after you've finished treatment
CA 15-3 and CA 27-29 (cancer antigens 15-3 and 27-29)
Tumor markers for:
breast cancer
Used to:
Monitor treatment in women with advanced breast cancer
PSA (prostate-specific antigen)
Tumor marker for:
prostate cancer
Used to:
Screen for prostate cancer
Help diagnose prostate cancer
Monitor treatment
Check to see if cancer has come back after you've finished treatment
CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen)
Tumor marker for:
colorectal cancer, and also for cancers of the lung, stomach, thyroid, pancreas, breast, and ovary
Used to:
See if cancer treatment is working
See if cancer has come back after you've finished treatment
AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)
Tumor marker for:
liver cancer, and cancers of the ovary or testicles
Used to:
Help diagnose liver cancer
Find out if cancer has spread (the stage of cancer)
See if cancer treatment is working
Predict chances for recovery
B2M (Beta 2-microglobulin)
Tumor marker for:
multiple myeloma, some lymphomas, and leukemias
Used to:
See if cancer treatment is working
Predict chances for recovery
