Cancer markers

[bettyhope]

Hi everyone the oncologist said my cancer markers were 69 but have come down a bit. What does that mean please?

[Claireperth]

sounds like the medication may be working but you will know more at your next oncology appointment as markers can fluctuate. Sorry I can’t give you a definitive answer, you will need to find out more from your oncologist.

[Hazelgreen]

There are three common types of cancer markers. Each has its normal range. It is great news when cancer markers "come down". That means the number is closer to the normal range.

I'm only familiar with the CA 15-3 cancer marker which has a normal range of 0 to 30. My number reached a peak of 190 two years ago, but now is in the middle of the normal range at 18. As others will tell you, cancer markers aren't used by all oncologists as some patients' numbers aren't that telling about their progress.

Best wishes, Cindy

[susiemarmite]

cancer markers measure a protein (I think) that gets released into the body. This protein is released by cancer but also by inflammation etc hence they aren’t 100% specific measure of active cancer. But going down is good.

[NPmary]

Many if not most docs don't follow these at all. Their greatest value I sort of as a warning sign - if they are trending abnormally high. - that is not good.Sounds like you have nothing to worry about. These numbers are not specific - scans always have to be done no matter what tumor markers are.