In cancer marker tests, what does a reading of more than 20 ng/ml usually indicate?

In cancer marker tests, a reading of more than 20 ng/ml is typically indicative of extensive disease. Tumor markers are substances that can be found in higher-than-normal amounts in the blood, urine, or tissues of individuals with certain types of cancer. When the levels of these markers exceed established thresholds, it often suggests that the cancer may be advanced or more aggressive.

In this context, exceeding the 20 ng/ml mark raises concern regarding the likelihood of metastasis or more widespread disease, as many cancers produce markers that elevate significantly in more advanced stages. Thus, a high reading serves as a crucial signal for clinicians to further investigate the extent of the cancer and possibly modify treatment strategies to address a more severe presentation of the disease.

It's important to note that while elevated markers can correlate with extensive disease, they must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests to guide treatment decisions effectively.