Oral cancer laboratory findings

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Simrat Sarai, M.D. [2], Sargun Singh Walia M.B.B.S.[3]; Grammar Reviewer: Natalie Harpenau, B.S.[4]

Some patients with oral cancer may have elevated liver function tests, abnormal urea and electrolyte measurements, or elevated calcium levels. Serum ferritin, alpha-antitrypsin, and alpha-antiglycoprotein levels may be increased in high-stage cancer of the oral cavity, while those at any stage of disease have increased haptoglobin levels. Prealbumin levels are decreased slightly in persons at any stage.

• Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of oral cancer include:
  • Liver function tests may be elevated in liver metastasis.
  • Complete blood cell count and hemoglobin values may be decreased.
  • Abnormal urea and electrolyte measurements.
  • Serum calcium level may be elevated, which is a poor prognostic indicator.
  • Serum ferritin, alpha-antitrypsin, and alpha-antiglycoprotein levels may be increased in high-stage cancer of oral cavity, while those at any stage of disease have increased haptoglobin levels.
  • Prealbumin levels are mildly decreased in individuals at any stage.

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