Lab Code : SCC
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
Lung cancer
Reference Range 0-150 ng/dL
Sample Required SST (gold top) preferred, serum (red top) accepted
Sample Volume 0.5 mL
Turnaround Time 4 days
Notes Abbott Architect assay