Hi everyone. I would appreciate a little advice about blood tests and tumour markers. I have just had (hopefully) my last chemo and my tumour marker came out at 23 which the onc said was a little low however as this is first time they have taken my markers she said it might be normal for me. My liver function has been normal all the way through chemo and blood tests have been good. I have mets to the liver. I am a little confused how tumour markers work and would really appreciate your advice. Thanks
Hi elliedog
Can I suggest you give the BCC helpline a call and talk this through with a member of staff. They will be able to explain to you about tumer markers and answer any questions you may have. The number to call is 0808 800 6000 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 to 5pm and Saturday 10 to 2pm.
I hope this is helps.
Best wishes Sam, BCC Facilitator
Hi Elliedog, tumour markers are one of the ways some consultants monitor your response to chemo, hormone treatments etc. they are not always reliable and that’s why not all hospitals use them. If this was your first tumour marker it will be used as a baseline to see how you respond to further treatments etc. if your consultant said yours were low, that’s a great start! They are used alongside lots if other things such as scans, pain levels and other blood tests. Hope this helps x
Suzanne
Morning! I also have liver mets. My tumour markers are checked every other month or so. They tend to be about 13 - 20 ish, and can rise about 20 ocasionally. That is lovely and low but it’s also normal for me. Some ladies have markers up in the thousanda when they are very poorly. It just indicates that there is some activity going on. xx