Clinical impact of CYFRA 21 – 1 as a tumor marker for regional and distant tumor control in advanced oropharyngeal cancer

Introduction:

Cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA 21 – 1) is an established tumor marker in the management of lung cancer. However, the clinical impact of CYFRA 21 – 1 as a tumor marker for patients with head and neck cancer is still unknown. The aim of the study was, to evaluate the diagnostic value of CYFRA 21 – 1 as a follow-up marker for patients with advanced oropharyngeal cancer.

Methods:

The clinical and histological data of 79 patients with oropharyngeal cancer of stages II-IVa were retrospectively analyzed. In all cases CYFRA 21 – 1 serum levels were evaluated by ECLIA assay in the follow-up. The development of regional or distant metastases was evaluated by ultrasonography or computed tomography.

Results:

The mean follow-up time was 4.0 years. Altogether 11 patients (13.9%) developed a regional recurrence and 23 patients (29.1%) distant metastases. In these cases, a marked increase of CYFRA 21 – 1 serum level was observed. Thus, in these patients the mean CYFRA 21 – 1 serum level at the time of first diagnosis was 3.11 ng/ml and in case of regional recurrence or distant metastases the mean CYFRA 21 – 1 serum level was 15.4 ng/ml.

Conclusions:

CYFRA 21 – 1 seems to be a suitable tumor marker for assessment of regional and distant tumor control for advanced oropharyngeal cancer.

Publication History

Publication Date:
18 April 2018 (online)