Final answer:
AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) and AFP-L3 are common tumor markers used in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver cancer. These tissue-specific markers can indicate a primary liver cancer presence when elevated, and their levels are monitored post-treatment for signs of cancer relapse or progression.
Step-by-step explanation:
The common tumor markers for liver cancer are AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) and AFP-L3 (a lectin-reactive AFP). Tissue-specific markers like AFP are produced by certain tissues that have developed cancer. While elevated AFP levels can be indicative of liver cancer, it is important to consider that these markers may also be elevated in other conditions. However, in the context of previously diagnosed individuals, the increase in these markers can suggest a relapse. Monitoring of AFP levels is crucial in the follow-up of liver cancer patients to assess the progress of disease or response to treatment.
Other markers, such as CA-125, are associated with ovarian cancer, whereas PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is related to prostate cancer, and CA 19-9 is linked to pancreatic cancer and biliary diseases. These markers are not specific to liver cancer but can still be relevant in the oncology field for diagnosis and monitoring of patients with related cancers.