We have investigated the role of biochemical markers in breast and lung cancer but have found that currently available tests have little role in management. In breast cancer, for example, we have found that the most sensitive method for routine screening for metastases is by using chest x-ray and clinical examination, liver function tests, and carcinoembryonic antigen measurements. We are now examining other methods for detecting metastases using immunocytochemistry in cytological preparations of bone marrow and attempting to raise monoclonal antibodies to breast cancer cells. In lung cancer, the major effort has been directed towards characterisation of large-molecular-weight ectopic hormones, particularly calcitonin.
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