The Role of Tumor Markers in Ovarian Cancer Detection

Ovarian cancer affects thousands of women in India each year. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, around 47,333 cases were reported in 2022. This type of cancer begins in the ovaries, the organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. It starts when certain cells in the ovaries begin to grow abnormally.

These cells can form a lump and may spread to other parts of the stomach and nearby organs, causing serious health problems. This article explains the early signs of ovarian cancer, the common tumour markers used to detect it, and how these markers help doctors diagnose and manage the disease.

What Are the Causes of Ovarian Cancer?

The exact ovarian cancer causes are often not known. However, some common factors have been linked to its development. These include-

• Inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA2 and BRCA1
• Long-term exposure to harmful substances like asbestos
• A family history of breast, colorectal, or ovarian cancer
• Hormonal factors, such as early periods or late menopause

The causes may also vary depending on the type of ovarian cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer does not usually show one clear symptom. However, there are some common signs to look out for-

• Persistent bloating or a swollen tummy
• Feeling full quickly when eating or loss of appetite
• Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area or lower belly
• Needing to urinate more often or more urgently

These symptoms are often seen in women with ovarian cancer. But since they are also linked to many other common health problems, early detection can be difficult. This is why it is important to carry out specific tests, such as tumour marker tests, to help identify the disease in time.

What Are Tumor Markers in Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer tumour markers are proteins produced by cancer cells or healthy cells responding to cancer. They are already present in the human body; however, high levels of tumour markers point to the presence of cancer.

A tumour marker test is a blood or urine test that measures the amount of a specific marker. Doctors use these ovarian cancer tumor markers to help diagnose cancer, choose treatments, and monitor if the treatment works.

What Are the Common Tumor Markers Used in Ovarian Cancer?

Here are several tumour markers used in the detection and monitoring of ovarian cancer–

1. CA-125 (Cancer Antigen 125) – This is the most common ovarian cancer marker. High levels may suggest the presence of ovarian cancer, especially in postmenopausal women.
2. HE4 (Human Epididymis Protein 4) – HE4 helps improve the accuracy of ovarian cancer detection, especially in distinguishing between malignant and benign pelvic masses.
3. AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein) – High levels of AFP are typically seen in liver cancer and certain germ cell tumours, including those that affect the ovaries.
4. CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) – Though most commonly associated with colorectal cancer, CEA levels rise in ovarian, lung, and breast cancers.
5. hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) – This hormone is normally produced during pregnancy but may also rise in some ovarian cancers.
6. LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) – LDH is not specific to one type of cancer but can increase in various cancers, including lymphomas and ovarian germ cell tumours.

How Are Tumor Markers Used to Detect Ovarian Cancer?

Tumour markers are not used alone to diagnose ovarian cancer. Instead, they are combined with scans and medical checks to help doctors get a clearer idea of what’s happening. Here’s how they support the process-

1. Checking symptoms or unusual growths – If a woman has symptoms like bloating, stomach pain, or a lump seen on a scan, doctors may test tumour markers such as CA-125. High levels can suggest the need for more detailed tests.
2. Understanding the risk before surgery – Tumour markers help doctors judge whether a growth in the pelvis is more likely to be cancer or not. This helps them decide the type of surgery needed and whether a cancer specialist should be involved.
3. Monitoring during treatment – Doctors often check tumour marker levels during chemotherapy or after surgery. If levels go down, it usually means the treatment is working.
4. Detecting recurrence early – After initial treatment, tumor markers are monitored during follow-up visits. A rise in levels can be an early sign that the cancer has returned, even before symptoms appear or changes are seen on scans.

Ovarian cancer can be tough to detect early, as its symptoms are often mistaken for other problems. Tumour marker tests can help with early diagnosis and treatment. If someone is experiencing signs that may be linked to ovarian cancer, it is important to see a doctor without delay and undergo the necessary tests. To book ovarian cancer-related tests, download the Dr Lal Path Labs’ app!

FAQ

1. What is the sign of ovarian cancer?
   Some common signs include persistent bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel or bladder habits.
2. How do you detect ovarian cancer early?
   The two tests most commonly used to screen for ovarian cancer, along with a complete pelvic exam, are transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and the CA-125 blood test.