Which serum tumour marker is most useful for monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence in a patient with squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix?
- A CA-125
- B CA 19-9
- C Squamous cell carcinoma antigen ✓
- D Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin
Correct answer: C. Squamous cell carcinoma antigen
Explanation
SCC antigen is elevated in a majority of advanced squamous cervical cancers and correlates with tumour burden, making it valuable for surveillance after definitive treatment; a rising level often precedes clinically detectable recurrence. CA-125 is nonspecific and used chiefly in ovarian epithelial cancer, CA 19-9 in pancreaticobiliary malignancy, and beta-hCG in gestational trophoblastic disease. None of these substitutes for SCC antigen in squamous cervical cancer.
Reference: Berek and Hacker's Gynecologic Oncology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.