Don’t ask for the determination of serum biomarkers like CEA, CA-125, HE4, CA-15.3, a-fetoprotein or CA-19.9 for the diagnosis of neoplastic disease in asymptomatic individuals.

Don’t ask for the determination of serum biomarkers like CEA, CA-125, HE4, CA-15.3, a-fetoprotein or CA-19.9 for the diagnosis of neoplastic disease in asymptomatic individuals.

Type of practice

Laboratory tests

Age

Adult, Geriatric

Topic Area

Laboratory Medicine

The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of these biomarkers are not sufficient to allow their use in a population with a low prevalence of neoplastic diseases. Their use is recommended for the monitoring of the neoplasias that express the specific biomarker (Colon – rectal: CEA; Ovarian: CA-125 and / or HE4; Brest cancer: CA-15.3; Haepatocarcinoma: a-fetoprotein; Pancreatic: CA-19.9).

Sources

1. Gion M, Trevisiol C, Pregno S, Fabricio ASC. La Guida all'uso clinico dei biomarcatori in oncologia 2010: premesse e generalità. Biochim Clin 2011; 35: 97-106.
2. Gion M, Trevisiol C, Pregno S, Fabricio ASC. Guida all'uso clinico dei biomarcatori in oncologia: metodi di misura e interpretazione. Biochim Clin 2011; 35: 199-206;
3. Gion M, Trevisiol C, Pregno S, Fabricio ASC. Guida all'uso clinico dei biomarcatori in oncologia: i marcatori nelle diverse neoplasie - Parte I. Biochim Clin 2011; 35: 394-403.
4. Gion M, Trevisiol C, Pregno S, Fabricio ASC. Guida all'uso clinico dei biomarcatori in oncologia: i marcatori nelle diverse neoplasie - Parte II. Biochim Clin 2011; 35: 465-73.

Attention. Please note that these items are provided only for information and are not intended as a substitute for consultation with a clinician. Patients with any specific questions about the items on this list or their individual situation should consult their clinician.