Considerations in using tumor markers: what the psycho-oncologist needs to know

Psychooncology. 2001 Sep-Oct;10(5):370-9. doi: 10.1002/pon.514.

Abstract

Tumor markers are measures of biological features of a cancer. By revealing important biological aspects of the tumor, tumor markers can be useful in staging patients, predicting cancer outcomes, and guiding treatments. The psychological consequences of using tumor markers are virtually unknown. In this review article, we draw on clinical studies involving the psychological impact of risk information, screening, prognostic information and surveillance of cancer. Such studies may be helpful in considering possible psychological reactions to tumor marker information in clinical practice.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Attitude to Health
  • Biomarkers, Tumor*
  • Drug Monitoring / methods*
  • Drug Monitoring / psychology*
  • Fear
  • Humans
  • Mass Screening / methods*
  • Mass Screening / psychology*
  • Mass Screening / standards
  • Medical Oncology / education
  • Medical Oncology / methods*
  • Neoplasm Staging / methods*
  • Neoplasm Staging / psychology*
  • Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms* / psychology
  • Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Patient Selection*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Prognosis
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Risk Factors
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor