Description

Cytokeratin 19 fragment, often referred to as CYFRA 21-1, is a fragment of a protein found in epithelial cells and is used as a tumor marker in several cancers. It's particularly useful in monitoring and assessing the prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and it can also be used in other cancers like breast, head and neck, and gynecological cancers. 

Elaboration:

• CYFRA 21-1 in Lung Cancer:
• CYFRA 21-1 is a commonly used marker for NSCLC. Elevated levels may suggest a poorer prognosis, and decreasing levels during treatment may indicate a response to therapy. 

• Other Cancers:
• CYFRA 21-1 can also be elevated in other epithelial cancers like breast, head and neck, and gynecological cancers. 

Fasting not required.