A 55-year-old woman with a history of heavy alcohol use and chronic hepatitis C presents with a liver mass. Biopsy shows trabecular growth pattern of malignant hepatocytes with bile production. Which tumor marker is most useful for monitoring disease progression and treatment response in this patient?
- A CA 19-9
- B Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) ✓
- C Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)
- D Beta-hCG
Correct answer: B. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
Explanation
AFP is the principal tumor marker for hepatocellular carcinoma, useful for diagnosis and monitoring treatment response. CA 19-9 is used for pancreatic and biliary tract cancers. CEA is used for colorectal carcinoma. Beta-hCG is used for gestational trophoblastic disease and germ cell tumors. The clinical context of hepatitis B with HCC makes AFP the correct choice.
Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.