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Updated: May 22, 2026
08:50
Predictive Immune Modeling of Solid Tumors
Published on: February 25, 2020
Tumor markers in clinical practice: a review focusing on common solid cancers
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. Michael.J.Duffy@ucd.ie
Summary
Tumor markers are crucial for early cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring. While many markers show clinical utility, the effectiveness of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening for reducing prostate cancer mortality remains uncertain.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Clinical Chemistry
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Tumor markers are essential laboratory tests in oncology.
- They aid in early cancer detection, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy monitoring.
- Their role spans screening, surveillance, and predicting treatment response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical utility of various tumor markers.
- To highlight their applications in different cancer types.
- To discuss the current understanding of their role in cancer management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of established and emerging tumor markers.
- Analysis of clinical applications across various malignancies.
- Evaluation of evidence for marker efficacy in screening and treatment.
Main Results:
- Specific markers like fecal occult blood, CEA, AFP, hCG, CA 125, ER, HER2, and KRAS status have demonstrated clinical value.
- These markers assist in screening, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy selection.
- The benefit of PSA screening for prostate cancer mortality reduction is still under investigation.
Conclusions:
- Tumor markers are indispensable tools in modern cancer care.
- Their appropriate use improves patient outcomes and treatment strategies.
- Further research is needed to clarify the role of certain markers, such as PSA.
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