Serum tumor markers in breast cancer

Several serum tumor markers have been investigated in patients with breast cancer for assessing outcome, predicting recurrence and monitoring the therapeutic response. There is general consensus concerning their limited application in diagnosing malignancy. However, serum tumor markers can be considered in the early detection of recurrences. Moreover, a number of new markers are under observation, although their long-term efficacy in predicting relapse of malignancy has not been confirmed. The most effective markers for this indication were shown to be CA 15-3, CA 27.29 and c-erbB-2, although their efficacy in establishing disease progression has not been determined to date. In terms of evaluating prognosis and predicting response to therapies, only the expression of c-erbB-2 has clinical evidence. In conclusion, at present, no tumor marker is cost-effective, and no one can be used with confidence in the decision-making regarding breast cancer patients.