Tumor Immunology

These flashcards cover key concepts and important tumor markers related to tumor immunology as discussed in the lecture notes.

What is Alpha-Fetoprotein important for in tumor immunology?

Alpha-Fetoprotein is used for following response to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and it is synthesized by the fetal liver, occurring in liver cancer and germ cell cancers.

What does Cancer Antigen 125 (CA-125) indicate?

CA-125 is elevated in carcinomas and benign diseases, and it is particularly useful in ovarian and endometrial carcinomas.

Why is Thyroglobulin monitored after thyroid surgery?

Thyroglobulin is monitored to determine if the tumor is producing it and to check for cancer recurrence if rising levels are detected.

What does Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) indicate about prostate health?

PSA is specific for prostate issues, is used as a treatment guide for prostate cancer, and its serum level is directly proportional to tumor size.

What cancers is Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) associated with?

CEA is elevated in colon, breast, lung, liver, and pancreatic cancers and is used to differentiate between benign and malignant pleural and ascites effusions.

What is the main use of Cancer Antigen 19-9 (CA19-9)?

CA19-9 is primarily a marker for colorectal and pancreatic cancers.

How is Cancer Antigen 15-3 (CA15-3) used in cancer therapy?

CA15-3 is used to monitor metastasis during therapy and to assess treatment response post-mastectomy.

What is the significance of HER2 (HER2/neu) in cancer?

HER2 is overexpressed in invasive breast cancers and is associated with aggressive tumors and reduced survival rates.

What does β-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin indicate?

β-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is indicative of pregnancy or malignant tumors, such as sinus tumors and teratocarcinoma.

What are some tumor marker assays used in tumor immunology?

Tumor marker assays include ELISA, Radioimmunoassay, Immunofluorescent Assay (IFA), Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).

What are classic and emerging therapies for cancer treatment?

Classic therapies include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, while emerging therapies involve monoclonal antibodies, immunotherapy, and gene inhibitors.