Which marker is commonly used to monitor the treatment of ovarian cancer?

The marker commonly used to monitor the treatment of ovarian cancer is CA-125. CA-125, or cancer antigen 125, is a protein that is often elevated in the blood of individuals with ovarian cancer. It serves as a tumor marker that can help in both the diagnosis and the monitoring of treatment efficacy.

CA-125 levels are measured to assess the progression or regression of the disease, especially during and after treatment. When therapy is effective, a decrease in CA-125 levels may be observed, indicating a positive response to treatment or remission. Conversely, rising CA-125 levels can suggest disease progression or recurrence, making it a vital tool for oncologists in managing ovarian cancer.

The other markers mentioned, while significant in their own right, are not primarily used for ovarian cancer. PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is primarily associated with prostate cancer, CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) is often elevated in colorectal and other cancers but is not specific to ovarian cancer, and AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) is typically associated with germ cell tumors and liver cancers. Thus, their roles as markers for ovarian cancer treatment monitoring do not align with the specific use of CA-125.