What role do blood tests play in cancer diagnosis?
Blood tests can be instrumental in diagnosing certain types of cancer. They can detect tumor markers, which are substances produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to cancer. For example, Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a marker for prostate cancer, while CA-125 can indicate ovarian cancer. Additionally, blood tests can provide valuable information about the overall health of the patient, such as liver and kidney function, which can influence the choice of treatment.
