Squamous cell carcinoma associated antigen (SCC)
| Category | Biochemistry >> Oncology |
|---|---|
| Test background |
SCC is a subfraction of TA-4, a tumour-associated antigen. TA-4, obtained from squamous cell cancer tissue of the uterine cervix, has been characterised as a glycoprotein with a molecular weight of 48 kDa. SCC is a member of the family of serine proteases. Several studies have shown that serum SCC levels reflect the extent of disease in women with cervical squamous cell cancer, and can be useful as an adjunct in predicting prognosis, detecting recurrence and monitoring disease status. The clinical sensitivity of SCC antigen serum levels for primary cervical cancer increases from approximately 30 % in stage I to 90 % in stage IV disease. SCC antigen has been studied in other squamous cell malignancies, including those of the lung, oesophagus, head and neck, anal canal and skin. In general, a pattern similar to that seen with squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix is seen with these tumours, ie. the more advanced tumour stages are reportedly associated with higher SCC antigen levels. Researchers have reported that measurement of the antigen, in serial determinations, may indicate disease recurrence, residual disease following treatment and response to therapy. |
| Clinical Indications |
Cervical cancer Diagnosis: due to limited sensitivity and specificity, single measurements of SCC are not recommended for screening purposes. At initial diagnosis, approximately 60 % of patients have elevated levels of SCC. Lung cancer Diagnosis: although single measurements are not suitable for screening, SCC has specificity for squamous cell cancer and can be used for subtyping. SCC may be used in combination with CEA and CYFRA for differential diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). |
| Reference range | 0-150 ng/dL |
| Sample & container required | SST (gold top) preferred, serum (red top) accepted |
| Sample volume | 0.5 mL |
| Notes | Abbott Architect assay
|