CYFRA 21-1 in the follow-up of patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma

Purpose: To evaluate serum tumour marker CYFRA 21-1 as a possible tool for follow-up of patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Methods: CYFRA 21-1 was repeatedly measured in 14 patients with MPM. ECLIA kits (Roche,formerly Boehringer Mannheim) were used for measurements. Randblock analysis of variance was used for statistical evaluation. Results: Elevated levels of CYFRA 21-1 (over 3.33 ng/ml) were found by the baseline, after 3, and after 6 months from baseline in 8 (57%), 9 (64%), and 10 (71%) patients respectively. CYFRA 21-1 levels changed significantly, the mean level increased from 14.46 (SD 22.77) to 34.23 (SD 52.14) ng/ml after 6 months (p <0.05). Changes of CYFRA 21-1 levels were consistent with the course of the disease. Conclusion: CYFRA 21-1 may be used as a marker for follow-up of patients with MPM.