Diagnosis and monitoring of lung cancer patients by measurement of NCA 50/90 in blood.

摘要

A method for aiding in the diagnosis of, and monitoring the progression of, lung cancer in a patient by measuring the amount of NCA 50/90 in a blood sample, e.g., serum sample, obtained from the patient. Measurement in a single sample of an amount of NCA 50/90 significantly higher than the mean amount of NCA 50/90 in the normal population is an indication of lung cancer in the patient. The progression of lung cancer can also be monitored by performing a series of specific immunoassays over time to determine changes in the level of NCA 50/90 in blood samples. Increases in blood NCA 50/90 levels over time are indicative of a deteriorating condition whereas decreasing levels of blood NCA 50/90 over time indicate an improving condition.