BONE METABOLIC MARKERS IN METASTATIC BONE-TUMORS

Currently, the diagnosis of bone metastasis is performed using imaging techniques. Recently however, bone metabolic markers have been evalua ted as possible diagnostic and monitoring methods for metastatic bone disease, Bone metabolic markers are classified as either resorption or formation markers, Each marker has its own biological significance an d hence a different clinical relevance. Clinical problems involving bo ne metastasis, for example cost-effectiveness in screening and difficu lties in monitoring response, may be solved by the application of bone metabolic markers. The current situation concerning the use of bone m etabolic markers in metastatic bone disease can be summarized as follo ws: 1, Bone metabolic markers are not yet established as screening met hods for bone metastasis 2, Bone metabolic markers are well-establishe d in monitoring responses to both conventional and bisphosphonate ther apies. 3, Measurement of bone metabolic markers can provide an insight into the mechanisms of bone metastasis.