Thanks very much for the comprehensive answers. I can also comment that all the following indicators are fine: GPT, GOT, PT, INR, Lymphocytes, ALKP-Alkaline Phosphatase, Albumin (B).
What is less good is the CRP which is 1.5 mg/dl.
This person will have PET CT scan next week, so will update...
rp1954 wrote:Single low readings are limited, preliminary information cancerwise, although statistically the odds are much more favorable with low values. Also the CEA and CA19-9 by themselves are a limited picture. If you have been diagnosed with CRC, hopefully you are still lower stage and curable. However, various data can refine the picture over time. You can improve baseline data at strategic points, like before and after surgery, in essence "scanning" for (monitorable) anomalies or documenting "good behavior" on various elements.
Gathering better data is like building the structure of a building. They work best all together and complete, less likely to fail catastrophically without warning in a storm. We've used better data to get early warnings, improve treatment and performance, and prepare followup steps, literal life savers.
We use other indicators serially for mets and liver issues. Beside the usual SGPT, SGOT, ALP panel, we include GGTP, LDH, AFP (a liver cancer marker fairly common for CRC), bilirubin, PT/INR, and Total protein A/G. Inflammatory conditions are reflected in ESR and hsCRP, which are helpful whether due to cancer or to promote it. Inflammation can be modified even before surgery.
We were able to establish highly stable baseline behavior for over a year with the immune components, mild drugs, supplements and IV vitamin C. Our experience with AFP, CEA, CA19-9 included serial elevations or initial elevations reduced by surgery.
One possible important difference is that CEA, AFP and/or CA19-9 go higher when things are looking iffy. Sometimes we can watch liver stuff dissolve on +- annual and extra scans with high enough intensity immunochemo, long after the real decisions were made based on blood work.