Which tumor marker is used to monitor recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma?

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Multiple Choice

Which tumor marker is used to monitor recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma?

Explanation:
Monitoring recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma relies on a marker that many HCC tumors secrete: alpha-fetoprotein. Serial AFP measurements after treatment help detect rising levels that can indicate return of disease, sometimes before imaging clearly shows it. In practice, an upward trend in AFP prompts further imaging with CT or MRI to locate recurrent lesions and guide management. However, not all HCCs produce AFP, so a normal AFP does not completely rule out recurrence; imaging and clinical assessment remain essential. The other markers listed—CEA, CA 19-9, and CA-125—are associated with other cancers (colon/pancreatic, pancreatic/biliary, and ovarian, respectively) and are not reliable for monitoring HCC recurrence.

Monitoring recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma relies on a marker that many HCC tumors secrete: alpha-fetoprotein. Serial AFP measurements after treatment help detect rising levels that can indicate return of disease, sometimes before imaging clearly shows it. In practice, an upward trend in AFP prompts further imaging with CT or MRI to locate recurrent lesions and guide management. However, not all HCCs produce AFP, so a normal AFP does not completely rule out recurrence; imaging and clinical assessment remain essential. The other markers listed—CEA, CA 19-9, and CA-125—are associated with other cancers (colon/pancreatic, pancreatic/biliary, and ovarian, respectively) and are not reliable for monitoring HCC recurrence.

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