Which tumour marker is most useful in the follow-up of a patient after resection of a pancreatic head adenocarcinoma?
- A CA 19-9 ✓
- B Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)
- C CA 125
- D Alpha-fetoprotein
Correct answer: A. CA 19-9
Explanation
CA 19-9 is the standard marker for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma; it is used to follow treatment response and detect recurrence after resection, though it is neither sensitive nor specific enough for screening. CEA can also rise but is less sensitive for pancreatic cancer. CA 125 is associated with epithelial ovarian cancer and alpha-fetoprotein with hepatocellular carcinoma and nonseminomatous germ cell tumours.
Reference: Sabiston Textbook of Surgery, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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