Also, serum levels of IL-10, TNF-α, TGF-β, VEGF, Cyfra21-1, SCCAg, ferritin, CEA, CA19-9 and AFP have been studied in oral and oropharyngeal carcinoma patients.15, 16 In summary, until now, serological studies have not elucidated any biomarkers that will allow detection of oropharyngeal tumours at an early stage. The gene discussed is IL10; the disease is oropharyngeal carcinoma.