Health examinations
胃泌素釋放胜肽前體ProGRP (Pro-Gastrin-Releasing Peptide)
ProGRP (Pro-Gastrin-Releasing Peptide): Tumor Marker for Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

*ProGRP is a tumor marker primarily used for the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of small cell lung cancer (SCLC). It is the precursor of gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP), and ProGRP levels are often significantly elevated in patients with SCLC.

*Normal Range: < 50 pg/mL (values may vary depending on the testing method)

*Causes of Elevated ProGRP
-Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC):
ProGRP is a specific marker for SCLC, and levels are typically significantly elevated in SCLC patients. It has high sensitivity for detecting this cancer.
-Other Cancers:
ProGRP levels can also be elevated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), neuroendocrine tumors, and some gastrointestinal cancers, although the increase is not as pronounced as in SCLC.
-Benign Diseases:
Some benign lung diseases (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary infections) can cause a mild increase in ProGRP levels.

*Uses of ProGRP
-Diagnostic Aid:
ProGRP is highly sensitive and specific for small cell lung cancer (SCLC), and can be used to differentiate SCLC from other types of lung cancer (e.g., non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)) or benign lung conditions.
-Monitoring Treatment Effectiveness:
In SCLC patients, changes in ProGRP levels can reflect the effectiveness of treatment. When treatment is effective, ProGRP levels typically decrease significantly.
-Detecting Cancer Recurrence:
ProGRP is useful for follow-up monitoring to help detect early recurrence of SCLC after treatment.

*Health Recommendations
-Further Investigation:
If ProGRP levels are elevated, additional imaging (e.g., chest CT or MRI) and other tumor markers (such as NSE (Neuron-Specific Enolase)) should be used for comprehensive diagnosis.
-Monitoring High-Risk Groups:
Individuals who are at high risk (e.g., smokers or those with a family history of lung cancer) should have regular ProGRP checks to aid in the early detection of SCLC.
-Follow-up and Treatment Monitoring:
After diagnosis and treatment, regular ProGRP testing helps to monitor treatment effectiveness and detect early recurrence of SCLC.

*Conclusion
ProGRP is a highly specific tumor marker for small cell lung cancer (SCLC), offering significant diagnostic and monitoring value. When used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools, ProGRP can increase detection rates for SCLC, leading to earlier treatment and better prognosis.