Tumor marker blood tests may provide additional information as part of clinical evaluation.
Results should always be interpreted by physicians together with your symptoms, medical history,
and imaging findings when applicable.
What Tumor Markers Are
Tumor markers are substances that may be measured in the blood.
Levels can change for many reasons and are not specific to a single disease.
For this reason, tumor markers are not used as standalone proof of a condition.
A normal result does not rule out disease, and an elevated result does not confirm disease.
Interpretation requires physician assessment.
How These Tests May Be Used
Depending on your situation, tumor marker testing may be considered to support clinical evaluation,
for example when combined with imaging or other examinations.
The selection of tests depends on individual circumstances and physician assessment.
- To support evaluation together with symptoms and other test results
- To provide additional context when interpreted with imaging findings (when applicable)
- To help determine whether further evaluation may be appropriate
Examples of Tumor Markers
The following are examples of tumor markers that may be included in a testing panel.
The appropriate selection varies depending on clinical needs.
| Clinical area (example) | Examples of markers |
|---|---|
| Digestive tract (example) | CEA, CA19-9 |
| Lung (example) | CYFRA, ProGRP |
| Pancreas (example) | SPAN-1, Elastase-1 |
| Liver (example) | AFP, PIVKA-II |
| Prostate (example) | PSA |
| Ovary / breast (example) | CA-125, NCC-ST-439 |
* Marker selection and interpretation depend on individual circumstances and physician assessment.
Limitations and Important Considerations
- Results can be influenced by non-cancerous conditions.
- Some cancers do not produce measurable tumor marker changes.
- Testing is not used as a standalone diagnosis.
- Your physician may recommend additional evaluation depending on the overall clinical picture.
Tumor marker testing does not replace clinical evaluation.
If additional assessment is required, imaging or specialist consultation
may be recommended within our hospital-based system.
Appointments & Inquiries
Services are available by appointment.
Please contact us to confirm eligibility and whether tumor marker testing is appropriate for your situation.