A Case of Abnormal Elevation of Serum CA 72-4 Caused by Colchicine.

BACKGROUND

CA 72-4 is a tumor associated antigen which shows significantly increased serum levels in gastric cancer. It is the most commonly used serum tumor marker for diagnosing symptomatic gastric cancer and monitoring gastric cancer treatment.

METHODS

We report the case of a gout patient with abnormal elevation of serum CA 72-4 caused by taking colchicine.

RESULTS

The patient's painless gastroscopy and other examinations showed no obvious abnormalities, and no detection interference was detected. After discontinuing treatment with colchicine, CA 72-4 level of the patient returned to normal. Therefore, the abnormal increase of CA 72-4 is believed to be caused by colchicine.

CONCLUSIONS

When gout patients receive colchicine treatment, it may lead to an abnormal increase in CA 72-4 results. Laboratory staff should consider the existence of such interference and promptly remind clinical doctors to avoid unnecessary examination and treatment of patients.