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What is a tumor marker?
How is a tumor marker used?
Where can I obtain additional information?
What is the MESOMARK® assay and how does it relate to mesothelioma?
Why is the MESOMARK test performed?
How is the MESOMARK test performed?
What do the results of the MESOMARK test mean?
Where can I obtain additional information about the MESOMARK test?
What is a tumor marker?
A tumor marker is a substance that can often be detected in higher than normal amounts in the blood, urine, or body tissues of some patients with certain types of cancer. Tumor markers are produced either by the tumor itself or by the body in response to the presence of cancer or certain benign conditions.
How is a tumor marker used?
Measurements of a tumor marker can be useful when used along with history, physical examination, and imaging procedures such as x-rays or ultrasound. Tumor markers can be used in a variety of situations to aid in the management of patients.
These include:
- Detection or screening of cancer
- Monitoring the effectiveness of therapy during the course of treatment
- Determining the recurrence of a tumor after primary chemotherapy
- Differential diagnosis
- Prognostic or predictive indicators
Where can I obtain additional information?
Access our interactive, animated tumor marker presentation for more detailed information on cancer and the use of tumor markers in the management of cancer.
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What is the MESOMARK® test, and how does it relate to mesothelioma?
The MESOMARK assay is a simple blood test, using an (ELISA) Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay format, for the quantitative measurement of Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptides (SMRP) in human serum. SMRP is a biomarker produced by the mesothelioma cells that can be elevated in the serum of patients suffering from mesothelioma.
Why is the MESOMARK test performed?
The MESOMARK test is performed to measure the level of SMRP present in the serum. The MESOMARK blood test will be used to help determine the presence of mesothelioma. The MESOMARK test can also help measure a patient's response to therapy and to determine if additional testing is required.
How is the MESOMARK test performed?
A blood sample is taken from the patient and then sent to a laboratory for testing to determine the level of SMRP present in the blood. The laboratory determines the amount of SMRP present in the blood by using monoclonal antibodies known to specifically bind to SMRP. By measuring the amount of bound antibodies, the laboratory can calculate the amount of SMRP present in the patient's blood.
What do the results of the MESOMARK test mean?
Physicians use the MESOMARK test results to assist them in making decisions about the management of patients with mesothelioma. Increasing results may be indicative of progressive disease; decreasing or constant results may be indicative of response to therapy, or stable disease.
Where can I obtain additional information about the MESOMARK test?
Ask your physician or go to our Education & Support section to learn more about the MESOMARK assay and mesothelioma.
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