[Biomarkers in testicular cancer.].

Objective: To review the current situationof biomarkers used in the diagnosis, prognosis,treatment response and relapse of testicular cancer.

Methods: A non systematic review was performedof clinical guidelines and articles published within thelast years regarding biomarkers in testicular cancer.

Results: The most commonly used biomarkersare alphafetoprotein (AFP) and beta human corionicgonadotropin (β-HCG).The enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is presentin multiple tissues and is elevated in advancedgerminal tumors. A few micro molecules of RNA (micro-RNA) have demonstrated to be specifically elevatedin testicular germinal tumors. However, its clincalbenefit, as well as its standardization is currently underinvestigation.

Conclusions: Classic biomarkers AFP, β-HCG,and LDH are of some utility confirming the diagnosisif they are elevated. However, its limited sensibility isnot enough to rely the diagnosis on themselves. Thereare promising results with Micro-RNA but its daily usedoes not seem imminent.