Value of CYFRA 21-1 as a tumor marker in the context of treatment for advanced laryngeal- and hypopharyngeal cancer

Introduction Cytokeratin-fraction 21-1 (CYFRA 21-1) is an established tumor marker in the management of non-small cell lung cancer. However, its relevance for patients with head and neck cancer is still a matter of controversial debate. In this context, the aim of the study was to evaluate the value of CYFRA 21-1 for a selected group of patients with advanced laryngeal- or hypopharyngeal cancer, treated by laryngectomy (LE).

Methods The clinical and laboratory data of overall 23 patients with laryngeal- (n = 19) or hypopharyngeal (n = 4) cancer of the UICC stages II-IV who underwent surgical treatment in form of LE either primary (n = 15) or as a salvage treatment (n = 8) after primary radiochemotherapy (RCT) due to tumor recurrence or residual disease were retrospectively analyzed. In all patients, CYFRA 21-1 serum levels were determined pre-therapeutically and at least once after treatment by ECLIA test-kit. The development of regional or distant metastases was evaluated by ultrasonography or computed tomography.

Results The mean follow-up time was 29 months. The mean CYFRA 21-1 serum level a time of first diagnosis was 1,7 ng/ml (1,5 ng/ml for patients with primary RCT, 1,8 ng/ml for patients with primary LE). While the mean CYFRA 21-1 serum level decreased by 0,3 ng/ml in patients treated by primary surgery, there was an increase from 1,7 ng/ml to 3,2 ng/ml in patients with unsuccessful RCT after initial treatment. In this patient group the mean CYFRA 21-1 serum level finally decreased by 1,2 ng/ml after the following salvage LE.

Conclusion An increase of CYFRA 21-1 levels after primary RCT for advanced laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer may indicate residual tumor.

Poster-PDF A-1677.PDF

Publication History

Article published online:
10 June 2020