Tumor Markers

Key Information

To differentiate types of leukemia and help determine prognosis

DNA Studies

Other Tumor Markers

Ferritin
Elevated levels are present in lymphoproliferative diseases; nonspecific to leukemia; also a marker for Hodgkin lymphoma or head and neck cancer

TDT (Terminal Deoxynucleotidal Transferase)
Differentiates acute lymphocytic leukemia from acute non-lymphocytic leukemia; also useful in differentiating lymphomas; TDT levels are absent in patients in remission

6-2 Microglobulin
Also called Beta 2-M. Elevated levels are present in lymphoproliferative disorders; nonspecific to chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Philadelphia Chromosome (Ph1)
Presence of abnormal chromosome in bone marrow confirms diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia; absence of Ph1 chromosome does not rule out CML

Click here to view the Tumor Markers page of the Diagnostic Tests module for more information.