cancer biomarker

A cancer biomarker is a measurable substance or characteristic found in the body that indicates the presence or progression of cancer. It can be a specific protein, gene mutation, or other molecule produced by cancer cells or related to their activity. Biomarkers help doctors detect cancer early, determine its type and location, monitor how well treatments are working, and predict patient outcomes. They are valuable tools in personalized medicine, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.