Antigenic markers of genital carcinoma

No significant testing in screening or early diagnosis of cancer is possible at present. Tumor markers of different origin are useful in the search for occult locoregional recurrence, metastatic disease, or early detection of progression irrespective of localization. The comparative analysis of tumor markers for follow-up is mandatory. Estrogen- and progesterone-receptor assays for prognostic evaluation in endometrial and breast carcinoma, and in some cases of ovarian tumors, should complete any pretherapeutic step. There is a possible link with epidermal-growth factor (EGF) with regard to uncontrolled growth of tumors in hormone-dependent (target) organs.