Can semaglutide influence tumor biomarkers? Insight from a clinical case

To our knowledge, this is the first case reported in literature, regarding an increase in tumoral biomarkers during a treatment with Semaglutide. A 61-year-old patient was referred to our gynecological consultation due to suspected adnexal cysts following an MRI performed for a functional defecation disorder. The patient was on Semaglutide treatment. Gynecological examination and transvaginal ultrasound were normal, with no evidence of adnexal cysts. Tumor biomarker testing revealed a significant increase in CA 19-9 and a mild elevation in CA-125. In an asymptomatic patient, these findings raised suspicion of a possible neoplastic origin involving the pancreas or biliary tract. However, all further investigations yielded normal results. At a follow-up laboratory check one month later, CA 19-9 levels had decreased from 717 to 62 kU/L. A subsequent evaluation two months later confirmed the normalization of tumor biomarkers. Despite the elevation of CA19-9 during pancreatitis, which could be induced by Semaglutide, it is important to recognize that not all patients will experience this side effect. Moreover, an increase in tumor biomarkers can occur even in the absence of a clinically detectable disease, such as pancreatitis or cancer. Further research is needed to explore the potential relationship between Semaglutide and elevated CA 19-9 or CA-125 levels.