M2 Pyruvate Kinase (M2-PK), as measured in faeces, is a tumour marker for colorectal cancer. Though M2-PK can be elevated in many tumour types, rather than being an organ-specific tumour marker, increased stool (faecal) levels can be used as a early detection of colorectal carcinomas.
The detection of M2-PK does not depend on blood in the stool and is specifically related to changes in tumour metabolism. The M2-PK test is a non-invasive stool test that can be used for the early detection of colorectal cancers and polyps which are known to be the precursors of colorectal cancer.
Increased M2-PK values can sometimes also occur in severe inflammatory diseases which must be excluded by differential diagnosis. If elevated levels of M2PK are present, it is recommended to request more specific tumour marker tests such as (CEA) for bowel cancer, CA 19-9 for pancreatic cancer and CA 72-4 for gastric cancer. This will significantly increase the sensitivity to detect various cancers.
M2PK can be ordered as a single marker or in alliance with a CDSA panel that includes certain GIT markers.
Common Conditions:
- Bloating, pain or nausea
- Loose or watery stools
- Undigested food in the stool
- Hypochlorhydria
- Food intolerances
- Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms
- Diabetes
- Cholecystectomy
- Osteoporosis
Reference:
Abdullah M, Rani AA, Simadibrata M, Fauzi A, Syam AF. The value of fecal tumor M2 pyruvate kinase as a diagnostic tool for colorectal cancer screening. Acta Med Indones. 2012;44(2):94‐99.
