Tumor Markers

Tumor markers are substances that can be found in the blood, urine, or other body fluids. They are produced by cancer cells or by normal cells in response to cancer. Tumor markers can be used to help diagnose cancer, monitor the progress of cancer treatment, and detect cancer recurrence.

There are several tumor markers that can be used to detect pancreatic cancer. These include:

• CA 19-9: CA 19-9 is a glycoprotein that is produced by cancer cells in the pancreas. It is the most commonly used tumor marker for pancreatic cancer. However, CA 19-9 is not specific for pancreatic cancer, and it can be elevated in other conditions, such as pancreatitis, liver disease, and colorectal cancer.
• Cancer antigen 125 (CA 125): CA 125 is a glycoprotein that is produced by cancer cells in the ovaries. It is not a specific tumor marker for pancreatic cancer, but it can be elevated in people with pancreatic cancer who have spread to the ovaries.
• Cytokeratin 19 (CK19): CK19 is a protein that is produced by cancer cells in the pancreas. It is not a specific tumor marker for pancreatic cancer, but it can be elevated in people with pancreatic cancer who have spread to the liver.

Tumor markers are not always accurate, and they should not be used as the sole basis for diagnosing cancer. However, tumor markers can be a useful tool in combination with other diagnostic tests, such as imaging tests and biopsies.

If you have any of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer, such as pain in the upper abdomen, jaundice, weight loss, or changes in bowel habits, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer can improve the chances of survival.

Thanks Bard

Notes:

• Pain in the upper abdomen: no
• Jaundice: yes. Also had a football size obstruction that passed 4/29.
• Weight loss: didn’t lose weight until she went on hospice.
• Changes in bowel habits: had an obstruction

Mom was told she’s not a candidate for surgery to remove the tumor or for chemotherapy due to her age and condition. Her dramatic weight loss occurred while she was on hospice while being given too many problematic medications that interfered with her eating and drinking.

I’ve looked through moms medical records. I never saw these tumor markers listed anywhere.