TUMOR MARKER BLOOD TESTS: THEIR SIGNIFICANCE IN EARLY DETECTION, ASSESSMENT OF TREATMENT EFFECTIVENESS, AND PROGNOSIS OF ONCOLOGICAL DISEASES

Abstract:

Tumor markers are biologically active substances that appear in the body in association with tumor processes or are synthesized directly by tumor cells and are primarily detected in blood serum. Tumor marker blood tests play an important role in modern oncology in the early detection of cancer, assessment of treatment effectiveness, prediction of disease recurrence, and long-term monitoring of patients. This article provides a detailed analysis of the biological and molecular basis of tumor markers, their classification, clinical application, and the diagnostic significance of the most commonly used tumor markers, as well as their advantages and limitations. In addition, the role of tumor marker tests in screening programs, modern laboratory technologies, and prospects within the framework of personalized oncology are discussed