Cyfra 21-1 is an important tumour marker for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Lung cancer is classified into two main types:
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):
- The most common type, accounting for about 85-90% of lung cancer cases.
- It grows and spreads more slowly compared to small cell lung cancer.
- Even non-smokers and individuals exposed to PM 2.5 (fine particulate matter) have a risk of developing this type of lung cancer.
- Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC):
- Less common, making up about 10-15% of lung cancer cases.
- Highly aggressive, growing and spreading rapidly.
- Mostly found in people with a history of smoking.
Recommendations for Cyfra 21-1 Testing
Cyfra 21-1 testing is recommended alongside CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) testing and Low-Dose CT Chest (LDCT) to enhance accuracy in screening for lung cancer risk.
The test is particularly recommended for:
- Regular smokers with a smoking history of 20 pack-years or more (calculated as the number of packs per day × years smoked), aged 50-80 years.
- Frequent exposure to second-hand smoke.
- Former smokers aged 50-80 years who had a history of smoking over 20 pack-years and quit less than 15 years ago.
- Individuals with a family history of lung cancer.
- Those exposed to chemical substances or radon gas.
- People living in areas with high air pollution or prolonged exposure to PM 2.5.
- Regular e-cigarette (vape) users.
Normal Cyfra 21-1 Levels
Should be less than 30 ng/ml.
Preparation Before Undergoing a Cyfra 21-1
No fasting is required before the Cyfra 21-1 test.
Differences Between Cyfra 21-1 and NSE Tests
- Cyfra 21-1 Test:
- Primarily for NSCLC, which is more common and spreads slowly.
- Can be found in non-smokers and those exposed to PM 2.5.
- NSE Test:
- Primarily for SCLC, which is less common but aggressive and fast-spreading.
- Mostly found in smokers.
