Ovarian Carcinoma Tumor Marker Identification
The question asks to identify the specific tumor marker for epithelial ovarian carcinoma. Evaluating the options provided:
- Option 1: Ca.125 - This is a well-established tumor marker frequently elevated in epithelial ovarian cancer. It is commonly used for monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence.
- Option 2: Alpha feto protein (AFP) - AFP is primarily associated with germ cell tumors of the ovary and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), not typically the main marker for epithelial ovarian cancer.
- Option 3: Beta HCG - Beta HCG is a marker for gestational trophoblastic disease and some types of germ cell tumors, but not the primary marker for epithelial ovarian cancer.
- Option 4: LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) - LDH is a non-specific marker that can be elevated in various conditions, including many types of cancer, but it lacks specificity for epithelial ovarian carcinoma.
Therefore, Ca.125 is the most appropriate tumor marker specifically associated with epithelial ovarian carcinoma among the given choices.