PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

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Which tumor marker is monitored in colorectal cancer?

AFP (alpha-fetoprotein)
CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen)
CA 19-9
PSA (prostate-specific antigen)

The correct answer is: CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen)

The appropriate tumor marker to monitor in colorectal cancer is carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). CEA is a glycoprotein involved in cell adhesion, and while it can be elevated in other conditions and cancers, it is particularly associated with colorectal cancer. Monitoring CEA levels is valuable not only for diagnosis but also for assessing treatment response and detecting recurrence after surgical resection. Elevated CEA levels after surgery or during treatment can signal the presence of residual disease or recurrence, making it a useful tool in the management of colorectal cancer patients. Other markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) are more commonly associated with liver cancer and germ cell tumors, while CA 19-9 is primarily associated with pancreatic cancer. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is specific to prostate issues and does not play a role in colorectal cancer. Thus, focusing on CEA is essential for effective monitoring and management of colorectal cancer patients.