Diagnostic utility of serum dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP- IV) /CD26 as a serum marker in Egyptian patients with colorectal cancer

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is considered a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Egypt. Colonoscopy is the standard for detection of lesions. The combination of screening methods is effective. Decrease and loss of DPP-IV/CD26 expression and activity are found in microenvironments of specific tumors which are related to impaired immune functions. Aim of the work: To study sCD26 as a noninvasive test in Egyptian patients with CRC as well as their correlation to CEA, CA 19–9 & other -biochemical parameters and determine the possibility to use it as a diagnostic tool for CRC. Patients and methods: This study included 40 patients divided into two groups: group I: comprised 20 patients with CRC, group II: comprised 20 patients with other colorectal disease together with 20 healthy control. Results: There was highly significant decrease in sCD26 in group I in comparison to group II and III. CD26 at cutoff 4.69 mg/mL, its sensitivity was 85% and its specificity was 87.5%. Conclusion: CD26 is involved in the pathogenesis of colorectal diseases; sCD26 is diminished in CRC patients suggesting the potential utility of a sCD26 for diagnosis.