Tumour markers

I've got stage 4 inflammatory breast cancer and was doing well until I had a severe allergic reaction to the drug I was on. Understandably my treatment options are limited.

After one cycle of my new regime (which I have found difficult and need to remain on it for as long as possible as there's nothing else available to me) my tumour markers have increased rapidly from 18 to 37. I know that they're not a reliable  diagnostic but it's made me very anxious. 

Could it be the cancer spreading? Has anyone had a similar experience? I've got to wait until mid November for a scan and that seems a very long time. 

Barb

  • Hello Barbm, 

    I am so sorry to hear you have had a severe allergic reaction to the drug you were on and that your treatment options are limited. I can understand why it has made you anxious that your tumour markers have increased. Try not to draw any conclusions though that it means the cancer is spreading. It's a long time indeed to have to wait until mid November for answers and I hope that you will meet others on this forum who have been in a similar position before and that they will share their experience with you. You could also perhaps talk to your GP about what these increased tumour markers may mean so that you don't feel so anxious while you are waiting to have the scan. 

    Don't hesitate to give our nurses a call too on this free number 0808 800 4040 - their line is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. It might be helpful to talk things through with them. 

    I am keeping everything crossed for you that your scan doesn't flag anything of concern. I hope that despite the difficulties you've encountered with it your treatment will work well.

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator