# Diagnostic and prognostic value of serum markers CEA, CA50, CA19-9, CA72-4, and CYFRA21-1 in colon cancer

## TL;DR

This study shows that combining specific blood markers improves detection and prognosis of colon cancer.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates that combined serum marker analysis improves diagnostic precision in colon cancer.

## Key findings

- All five serum markers were significantly elevated in colon cancer patients compared to healthy controls.
- Combined detection of markers improved sensitivity and specificity compared to individual assessments.

## Abstract

This study aimed to assess the clinical utility of serum tumour markers - carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), carbohydrate antigen (CA) 50, CA19-9, CA72-4, and the cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA21-1) - for early detection and prognostic evaluation in colon cancer.

A total of 50 patients diagnosed with colon cancer and 50 healthy individuals were enrolled. Serum levels of CEA, CA50, CA19-9, CA72-4, and CYFRA21-1 were quantified and compared between groups. Correlations with tumour staging, recurrence, and metastasis were also analysed.

All five serum markers were significantly elevated in colon cancer patients compared to controls (P< 0.05). Marker levels were notably higher in advanced-stage cases (stages III-IV) than in early-stage disease (stages I-II) (P< 0.05). Following surgery, marker levels declined significantly (P< 0.05), except in patients with recurrence or metastasis, who showed elevated preoperative values (P< 0.05). Combined detection yielded significantly higher positive detection rates, sensitivity, and specificity than individual marker assessments (P< 0.05).

CEA, CA50, CA19-9, CA72-4, and CYFRA21-1 are clinically relevant markers for the detection, staging, and prognostic prediction of colon cancer. Combined serum marker analysis substantially improves diagnostic precision and supports early screening and outcome assessment.