How are tumor markers utilized in pathology?

Tumor markers play a significant role in pathology as they are substances often produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to cancer. They are primarily utilized to indicate the presence of cancer and to assist in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment. Tumor markers can be detected in blood, urine, or tissue samples, and their levels can provide valuable information about the status of a known cancer, including progress or recurrence, thereby guiding further treatment options.

In the context of monitoring, certain tumor markers may decrease in concentration after successful treatment, while an increase may suggest a recurrence or progression of the disease. This utility helps clinicians evaluate patient responses to therapies and make informed clinical decisions.

Other options described do not reflect the primary usage of tumor markers. While some viral infections may have associated markers, tumor markers are not used specifically to indicate viral infections. They are also not designed to replace imaging techniques for detecting cancer; rather, they complement these imaging modalities by providing biochemical data. Additionally, tumor markers are not used exclusively to diagnose immune disorders, as their primary focus is on cancer-related processes.