Role of tumour markers in monitoring epithelial ovarian cancer

Currently the only tumour marker to have a well-defined and validated role in the management of ovarian cancer is CA125. Changes in the level of CA125 can be used as a reliable indication of response or progression according to various criteria, but it does not yet have a clear place in diagnosis or prognosis. Its value as part of a screening tool and during routine follow -up remain the subject of ongoing trials. Other markers remain experimental and do not have a well-defined contribution to make at present. (C) 2000 C ancer Research Campaign.