Difference in tissue expression of tumour markers CA 19-9 and CA 50 in hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma
1991

Tumor Markers CA 19-9 and CA 50 in Liver Cancers

Sample size: 35 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): C. Haglund, J. Lindgren, P.J. Roberts, S. Nordling

Primary Institution: Helsinki University Central Hospital

Hypothesis

The study investigates the expression of tumor markers CA 19-9 and CA 50 in hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma.

Conclusion

Hepatocellular carcinomas do not express CA 19-9 and CA 50, while most cholangiocarcinomas do, which may aid in their differential diagnosis.

Supporting Evidence

  • CA 19-9 and CA 50 are normal constituents of bile ducts.
  • Cholangiocarcinomas showed a high positivity for CA 19-9 and CA 50.
  • Hepatocellular carcinomas did not express CA 19-9 or CA 50.

Takeaway

This study looked at two markers in liver cancer and found that one type of cancer shows them while the other does not, helping doctors tell them apart.

Methodology

The study used immunoperoxidase staining on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections from liver cancer specimens.

Limitations

The study does not address the potential for other gastrointestinal tumors to express these markers.

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication