Overview and Clinical Significance
Cancer Antigen 72-4 (CA 72-4) is a tumor marker primarily associated with gastric, ovarian, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. It is a glycoprotein expressed on carcinoma cells, aiding in cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and prognosis.
Clinical Significance
- Gastric & Colorectal Cancer Monitoring: CA 72-4 is elevated in gastric cancer, with studies suggesting its prognostic value for recurrence and disease progression.
- Ovarian & Pancreatic Cancer Detection: It is used alongside CA 125 and CA 19-9 to assess ovarian and pancreatic malignancies.
- False Positives & Non-Cancerous Conditions: CA 72-4 levels may rise in pulmonary disease, infections, heart disease, and kidney dysfunction, leading to potential misdiagnosis.
- Prognostic & Therapeutic Applications: Elevated CA 72-4 levels correlate with tumor burden and treatment response, making it a valuable marker in oncology.
CA 72-4 is a key biomarker for gastrointestinal and ovarian cancers, influencing diagnostic accuracy, treatment monitoring, and prognostic evaluations.
