Tumor Marker

Tumor Marker and Clinical Applications | Review

Carcinogenesis is multiple steps process which involves prolonged accumulation of abnormal genes to the incidence of cancer lesion on the body. Initial phase of tumor detection is an important issue for the oncologist because in this phase of therapy is expected to give maximum result. Known as primary cause and the factors that initiate the process of carcinogenesis is a defect in the proto-oncogenes, suppresor genes, and several other essential genes. Defects are not only considered as patogenetic factor but also as a tumor marker because of DNA mutation (genetic defect) is detected on the body's biological fluids -indication of tumor growth-.

Tumor Marker is a molecule or process or a substance that can be measured with an examination (assay) both qualitatively and quantitatively in precancerous condition and cancer. Changes in these levels can be caused by tumors and normal tissue in response to the tumor. Tumor markers can be DNA, mRNA, protein or parts of proteins ( such as te process of proliferation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and others. Tumor markers can be found in significant amounts in the blood or urine of patients with cancer and can also be found in the blood and urine of patients with no cancer. Beside that Tissue, saliva, body fluids, and the cell itself can be used as a specimen for the tumor marker test.

Tumor markers widely used in clinics, in order to add the necessary information that can assist in clinical decision making of a disease.

Source: Translate from Text Book " Buku Ajar Ilmu Penyakit Dalam Jilid II edisi IV page 820 "

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