KL-6 is a Potential Diagnostic Biomarker for Pleural Mesothelioma

Objectives Malignant pleural mesotheliomas (MPM) are associated with dismal outcome and the limited treatment options underscore the need for accurate and early diagnosis of MPM. The only currently approved circulating biomarker for MPM is the soluble mesothelin related protein (SMRP). The mucin MUC1, which forms mucous barriers and protects epithelial surfaces, has shown prognostic value as a biomarker in adenocarcinomas, prostate cancer and lung cancer. The present study investigates if KL-6 – a mucinous high-molecular weight glycoprotein – can serve as a diagnostic or prognostic marker of MPM.