alpha-Fetoprotein, carcinoembryonic antigen, human chorionic gonadotropin and its beta subunit in metastatic choriocarcinoma: short-term follow-up and determinations of resistance during chemotherapy.

Serum levels of alpha fetoprotein (AFP), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and its beta subunit (beta-hCG) were measured during the therapy of a choriocarcinoma with lung metastases. All AFP determinations were in the normal range. The CEA levels showed a correlation with the radiologically confirmed development of lung metastases. A rise of hCG during the first 2--6 days to 177.3--407.5% of the initial level and a descent to 17.9--33.7% of the initial level at the 10th day of therapy were typical behavioral patterns associated with tumor sensitivity. The onset of tumor resistance against the chemotherapeutic preparation used was evident within 10 days after therapy. A small rise, a slight fall below the initial value, and then a rapid increase to above the initial level were typical parameters. With established tumor resistance there was an autonomous unremitting increase of hCG activity. Short-term follow-up to hCG in intervals of 2 days at least for over a period of 10 days are deemed advisable for early detection of resistance toward the particular chemotherapeutic preparation used.