The Clinical Use of Tumor Markers in Select Cancers: Are You Confident Enough to Discuss Them With Your Patients?

Abstract

To review the clinical use of tumor markers in select cancers and highlight future directions in tumor marker development. Guidelines from national and international societies, scientific literature, and Internet resources. Tumor markers are important tools in the management of cancer. Sequencing of the human genome has led to new tumor marker development in the fields of proteomics and DNA microarray technologies. Tumor marker technology is expanding rapidly; almost a dozen tumor markers currently are being used in the oncology arena, with many more in development. The use of tumor markers can be controversial, particularly because guidelines have not been established for all of the markers. Oncology nurses need to be well versed in the use of tumor markers to educate and counsel patients with cancer.