A pleural mesothelioma diagnosis is incredibly overwhelming for patients and caregivers. Knowing about treatment options can make it easier on these groups. One area of research is looking at blood-based biomarkers to test for mesothelioma. Two promising biomarkers are soluble mesothelin-related protein and cancer antigen 125. Both help monitor pleural mesothelioma progression. A new article published in Thoracic Cancer gives advice to patients and caregivers on how to best utilize these biomarkers.
Soluble mesothelin-related protein (SMRP) and cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) are both biomarkers found in the blood. They give valuable information about the presence and progression of pleural mesothelioma. SMRP levels tend to be higher in patients with pleural mesothelioma, especially those with epithelioid and biphasic histology. CA-125 is also helpful in the indication of abdominal recurrences, which can help diagnose the spread to the abdominal cavity.
When someone has pleurectomy and decortication surgery, it is crucial to monitor SMRP and CA-125 levels both before and after surgery. When tested, they can show disease progression and recurrence. Studies have linked changes in SMRP levels to local recurrence. CA-125 levels can show lymphatic or abdominal recurrence. Once someone has surgery, it is crucial for the person’s SMRP and CA-125 levels to be tracked. A drop in levels after surgery followed by an increase later could mean the cancer came back. High CA-125 could mean that there is abdominal recurrence. Over time, the levels of these biomarkers need to be monitored so recurrence can be detected early and follow up care can be guided.
Blood based biomarkers are useful for the management of pleural mesothelioma. They are just one tool in a person’s care plan though. A care plan can include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Regular checkups and imaging are crucial for tracking someone’s condition. People should also stay informed about clinical trials and other research and treatments. Speak to your doctor about clinical trials because clinical trials offer the most up to date treatments for hard-to-treat cancers. Being informed can help you make the best health decisions. Biomarkers like SMRP and CA-125 can help doctors track mesothelioma progress. It can also improve post-surgery monitoring. Collaboration with a healthcare team can offer hope to those struggling with mesothelioma.
Research is an important part of the cancer treatment process. Without research, we would not have the biomarkers SMRP and CA-125. If we continue to research mesothelioma, there is a chance we could cure the hard-to-treat cancer.
