CA 19.9 in Choledocholithiasis: Case Report

Abstract

Based on a patient with a marked increase in serum CA 19.9, with choledocholithiasis, some considerations are made about the usefulness of tumor markers in clinical practice.
A high level of this antigen does not always correspond to malignant pathology, it is not specific for it, withdrawing its diagnostic importance, often confusing situations. Retrospective studies show that the improper use of tumor markers makes health systems more expensive, it may confound and delay diagnosis.
However, the authors reinforce their role in monitoring cancer patients, with a proven diagnosis of  neoplasms, which may be beneficial for future therapeutic decisions and clinical surveillance.