Carbohydrate antigen, СА 72-4

CA 72-4

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

CA 72-4, also known as the Cancer Antigen 72-4, is a tumor-associated glycoprotein that is often used as a biomarker for certain types of cancer, particularly in the diagnosis and monitoring of ovarian and endometrial cancers. It is a mucin-like protein that is overexpressed in some malignant cells, and its levels can be measured in the blood.

Structure and Function of CA 72-4

CA 72-4 is a large, heavily glycosylated protein with a molecular weight of approximately 1 million Daltons. It is composed of multiple subunits and is primarily found on the surface of tumor cells. The exact function of CA 72-4 is not fully understood, but it is believed to play a role in cell adhesion, migration, and metastasis.

While CA 72-4 is not a specific marker for any particular cancer type, elevated levels of CA 72-4 in the blood can be indicative of ovarian, endometrial, pancreatic, breast, or gastrointestinal cancers. However, it is important to note that other non-cancerous conditions, such as benign ovarian cysts or endometriosis, can also cause elevated CA 72-4 levels.

CA 72-4 levels are often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and clinical evaluations to aid in the detection, monitoring, and management of certain types of cancer. It is important to interpret the results in the context of the patient's overall clinical picture and in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

The Role of CA 72-4

CA 72-4 is a tumor-associated glycoprotein that can be used as a biomarker for certain types of cancer, particularly ovarian, breast, and gastrointestinal cancers. The level of CA 72-4 in the blood can provide valuable information for the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of these cancers.

Indications for CA 72-4 Testing

The CA 72-4 test may be ordered in the following situations:

• Diagnosis of ovarian, breast, or gastrointestinal cancers: Elevated levels of CA 72-4 can indicate the presence of these cancers, particularly in the advanced stages.
• Monitoring treatment response: CA 72-4 levels can be used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. A decrease in CA 72-4 levels may indicate a positive response to treatment, while an increase may suggest disease progression or recurrence.
• Surveillance after treatment: CA 72-4 testing can be performed regularly after treatment to detect any potential recurrence of cancer at an early stage.
• Evaluation of suspicious masses or lesions: In combination with other diagnostic tests, CA 72-4 levels can help evaluate the nature of suspicious masses or lesions in the ovaries, breasts, or gastrointestinal tract.

Preparation for the CA 72-4 Test

Before undergoing the CA 72-4 test, it is important to follow these recommendations:

• Fasting: It is generally recommended to fast for at least 8-12 hours before the test, as food intake may affect the results.
• Medication: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some drugs can interfere with the test results.
• Physical activity: Avoid strenuous physical activity before the test, as it may temporarily alter the levels of the measured substances.
• Smoking and alcohol: Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test, as they can potentially affect the results.
• Hydration: Ensure proper hydration by drinking plenty of water before the test, as dehydration may affect the concentration of substances in the blood.

Procedure for the CA 72-4 Test

The CA 72-4 test involves taking a blood sample, typically from a vein in your arm. A healthcare professional will perform the following steps:

1. Identify a suitable vein, usually in the inner elbow area.
2. Clean the area with an antiseptic solution.
3. Insert a sterile needle into the vein to draw blood.
4. Collect the required amount of blood in a vial or tube.
5. Remove the needle and apply pressure to the puncture site to stop any bleeding.
6. Apply a bandage or cotton ball to the puncture site.

Sources:

https://tcr.amegroups.org/article/view/63366/html
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7874576/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6562516/

IMPORTANT!

It is very important to remember that the information in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of a condition, it is necessary to consult a doctor for appropriate diagnostic tests and treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use different methods and units of measurement for similar tests.