A biological tumor marker refers to a substance or molecule that is present in the body and can indicate the presence, progression, or characteristics of a particular type of tumor. These markers can be found in various body fluids such as blood, urine, or tissue samples and are often used in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of cancer.
The identification and measurement of biological tumor markers play a crucial role in oncology because they provide valuable information about the growth and behavior of tumors. This information helps in determining the appropriate treatment strategies, assessing the response to therapy, and predicting the prognosis.
Biological tumor markers can be specific substances produced by cancer cells themselves, such as hormones, enzymes, or proteins. They can also be substances released by the body in response to the presence of a tumor, such as antibodies or immune system components. Some common examples of biological tumor markers include prostate-specific antigen (PSA) for prostate cancer, CA-125 for ovarian cancer, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) for colorectal cancer.
However, it is important to note that the presence of a biological tumor marker does not always indicate the presence of cancer. False positives and false negatives can occur, and further diagnostic tests are usually required to confirm the presence or absence of cancer.
In summary, a biological tumor marker is a substance or molecule that can be measured in the body and provides valuable information about the presence, progress, or characteristics of a tumor. They are extensively used in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of various types of cancer.
