Which tumor markers are associated with nonseminomatous testicular cancer?

• A. LDH and PSA
• B. AFP and beta-hCG
• C. CA-125
• D. CEA

Answer: (B)

Nonseminomatous germ cell tumors of the testis are typically associated with two specific serum markers: AFP and beta-hCG. AFP is produced by yolk sac tumors and often by embryonal carcinoma, while beta-hCG is produced by choriocarcinoma and can be elevated in some embryonal carcinomas as well. These markers help confirm the diagnosis, guide staging and treatment planning, and monitor response or relapse during and after therapy. LDH is a non-specific marker of tumor burden and can be elevated in many conditions, including seminomas, so it’s less informative for distinguishing nonseminomatous disease. PSA, CA-125, and CEA are markers tied to other cancers or organs and are not used to characterize testicular cancer.