Basic Information
Cancer markers are not diagnostic in themselves. A definitive diagnosis of cancer can be made by looking at biopsy specimens (e.g., of tissue) under a microscope or Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) and smear examination of discharge (Pap smear). However, cancer markers provide information that can be used in monitoring treatment, helping in diagnosis, staging & determining prognosis & recurrences.
Change in bowel habits (Colon) or bladder function (Bladder, Prostate) Sores that do not heal (Oral Cancer) White patches inside the mouth or white spots on the tongue (Precancerous Leukoplakia) Unusual bleeding or discharge (Lung, Kidney, Colon, Rectal, Cervical or the endometrial) Thickening or lump in the breast or other parts of the body Recent change in a wart or mole or any new skin change ( Skin-Melanoma) Nagging cough or hoarseness ( Lung, Larynx or Thyroid Gland)
Liver, germ cell cancer of ovaries or testes
CA 19.9
Pancreatic, sometimes bowel and bile duct hCG PSA/Free PSA
Testicular & trophoblastic Prostate
Breast & others including lung, ovarian Ovarian Bowel, lung, breast, thyroid, liver, cervix & bladder etc. Gastric Cancer
*Cancer Markers may be elevated in a few benign diseases other than cancers also.
Celiac disease (gluten-sensitive enteropathy), sometimes called sprue or celiac, is an immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. If you have celiac disease, eating gluten triggers an immune response. Over a period of time, this reaction damages the small intestine's lining and prevents absorption of some nutrients, which in children may affect growth and development. There's no cure for celiac disease — but for most people, following a strict gluten-free diet can help manage symptoms and promote intestinal healing.
Signs & Symptoms
Laboratory Tests
Diarrhea Bloating & Gas Fatigue Weight Loss Constipation Depression Itchy Rash Iron-Def. Anemia
Screening: 1. tTG IgA Abs, Serum 2. IgA, Serum 3. DGP IgG Abs, Serum Further Confirmation: 1. Biopsy 2. Genetic Tests: HLA DQ2 & DQ8
Complete blood count (CBC) with ESR C-Reactive protein (CRP) Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) Vitamin D, Vitamin B12 and Folate Iron, TIBC, Transferrin & Ferritin