My marker doubled from 700 to 1400 in 2 weeks

HavahJ · 02-13-2008, 01:39 PM

It's the same old liver met me. I'm freaked completely out. I think I have very little time, this is moving very fast. If you want to write me use my email because I see it more often. HavahJ@aol.com. My name is Jan. Thank you all for everything.

Faith in Him · 02-13-2008, 01:56 PM

Jan,

I do not understand tumor markers very well. My onc. does not use them. I believe that sometimes markers can increase when the cancer cells are dying. So this could be a good sign.

I am sure someone will be along soon to shed more light.

Hang in there. I am believing that this will turn around for you real soon.

Hugs
Tonya

Becky · 02-13-2008, 06:48 PM

Dear Jan

Tonya is correct that tumor markers very often rise during treatment. The treatment is killing the tumors and they (along with the protein they produce which the tumor marker test measures) are put out into the blood stream for the body to get rid of.

Are you certain that your treatment is not working? It probably is doing something of a job!

chrisy · 02-14-2008, 11:07 AM

Jan,
What does your oncologist have to say about the rising tumor markers? Markers have never worked for me, so I have no personal experience here but I believe what Becky says is accurate.

Chelee · 02-14-2008, 06:33 PM

Havah, I have to agree with Becky. I personally know quite a few women down at my cancer center and their tumor markers CLIMBED after they started their chemo. Even my tumor markers were always the same until about my third infusion of TCH...then they climbed. I was all stressed about it but they went back down. So it might be up only because the chemo is kicking those mets behinds! Hang in there...I know it CAN'T be easy. My heart goes out to you.

Chelee