Overview and Clinical Significance
CA 50 (Cancer Antigen 50) is a tumor marker primarily associated with gastrointestinal cancers, including pancreatic, colorectal, and gastric malignancies. It is a glycoprotein involved in cell adhesion and tumor progression, aiding in cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and prognostic assessment.
Clinical Significance
- Pancreatic & Gastrointestinal Cancer Detection: CA 50 is elevated in pancreatic and colorectal cancers, often used alongside CA 19-9 for improved diagnostic accuracy.
- Prognostic Value in Cholangiocarcinoma: Studies suggest CA 50 may serve as a poor prognostic marker for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, correlating with tumor severity and survival outcomes.
- Other Malignancies & Non-Cancerous Conditions: Elevated CA 50 levels can also be seen in benign biliary diseases and inflammatory conditions, requiring careful interpretation.
- Treatment Response & Monitoring: A decline in CA 50 levels during therapy often indicates positive treatment response, while an increase may suggest disease progression.
CA 50 is a key biomarker for gastrointestinal and pancreatic cancers, influencing diagnostic accuracy, treatment monitoring, and prognostic evaluations.
