Which tumour marker is used to monitor treatment response and detect recurrence in squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix?
- A CA 125
- B Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC-Ag) ✓
- C CEA exclusively
- D Beta hCG
Correct answer: B. Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC-Ag)
Explanation
SCC-Ag is elevated in a majority of advanced cervical squamous carcinomas and correlates with tumour burden, so serial levels are useful for assessing response to therapy and detecting recurrence ahead of imaging. It has no role in population screening because sensitivity in early disease is low. CA 125 is nonspecific and more relevant to ovarian epithelial tumours, and beta hCG relates to gestational trophoblastic disease.
Reference: Berek and Novak's Gynecology, 16th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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