Which type of tumor marker is associated with prostate cancer?

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by both normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland. It is primarily used as a tumor marker in the diagnosis and management of prostate cancer. Elevated levels of PSA in the blood can indicate the presence of prostate cancer, although they can also be elevated in other prostate conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis. Due to its specificity for prostate tissue, PSA is an essential tool for screening, monitoring treatment response, and detecting recurrence of prostate cancer.

In contrast, the other tumor markers listed are associated with different types of cancers. Alpha-fetoprotein is typically linked to liver cancer and germ cell tumors, while carcinoembryonic antigen is more associated with colorectal and other gastrointestinal cancers. Calcitonin is primarily used as a marker for medullary thyroid carcinoma. Understanding the specific associations of these tumor markers with different cancers is crucial for proper diagnosis and management in oncology nursing.