Circulating Tumor Marker Hormones
Hormone measurements used to detect, monitor, or assess treatment response in hormone-secreting malignancies.
Full Definition
Circulating tumor marker hormones are hormone measurements that serve as biomarkers for the presence, progression, or treatment response of endocrine tumors. Examples include calcitonin for medullary thyroid carcinoma, chromogranin A for neuroendocrine tumors, and various ectopic hormone productions in non-endocrine cancers. These markers can be elevated due to excessive hormone production by tumor cells or impaired hormone metabolism. Serial monitoring helps assess treatment effectiveness and detect disease recurrence. Interpretation requires understanding the specific tumor type, stage, and treatment history. False positives can occur due to other medical conditions, medications, or laboratory interference. The testing is often combined with imaging and other tumor markers for comprehensive oncologic assessment.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the tumor type when discussing specific hormone markers.
In Context
- "Circulating tumor marker hormones showed significant decline following surgical resection of the pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor." — Oncology follow-up report
- "The laboratory established specific protocols for handling circulating tumor marker hormone specimens." — Oncology laboratory procedure manual