Tumour markers in pancreatic cancer

The serum levels of three new tumour markers defined by monoclonal antibodies, CA 19-9, CA 50 and CA 125, were analysed and compared with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in samples from 91 patients with pancreatic cancer and from 111 patients with benign pancreatic, biliary tract and hepatocellular diseases. High serum concentrations of CA 19-9 and CA 50 were found in most patients with pancreatic cancer, 78% and 72%, respectively. The serum levels of these two markers showed a positive correlation, while no other correlation was found between the markers. Benign extrahepatic cholestasis was often associated with moderately elevated CA 19-9 and CA 50 levels. The CA 125 and CEA levels were elevated in about half of the patients with pancreatic cancer. Both CA 19-9 and CA 50 seem promising in the follow-up of patients with pancreatic cancer.