Topic overview

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Tumor markers are serum molecules associated with some malignancies, but benign conditions can also raise their levels. CEA is associated with several cancers, especially colorectal cancer, and serial values can help monitor for recurrence; smoking and inflammatory or liver conditions may affect results. AFP is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma and certain non-seminomatous germ-cell tumors, and maternal AFP screening has a distinct role in assessing pregnancy-related risks. PSA is specific to the prostate rather than to cancer, so benign prostatic conditions can also elevate it. The lesson emphasizes interpreting marker results alongside clinical assessment and other investigations, and using marker kinetics—not isolated values alone—to evaluate response or possible recurrence.