CA 19.9, Serum (Pancreatic Cancer Marker)
Accurate Tumor-marker- CA 19-9 test for the analysis of cancers associated with pancreas and gastrointestine.
Disease.
Cancer Tests
Department.
Immunology
TAT.
1 Day
Sample Type
- • 2 mL (0. 5 mL min) serum from 1 SST
- Provide brief clinical history
What is CA 19-9?
Carbohydrate Antigen (CA) 19-9 is a glycoprotein that is present on the surface of various cells of the cancer and in normal tissues. The CA 19-9 is a biomarker for the presence of the tumor in the pancreas, bile duct, and other parts of the gastrointestine. It plays a vital role in the detection and management of the cancer associated with the pancreas.
CA 19-9 is a test conducted to measure the levels of CA 19-9 in the blood to monitor the response to the treatment, progression of the disease, and overall prognosis. This test is not definitive and gives valuable information if combined with diagnostic tests such as imaging studies and clinical assessments.
How is the Test Performed?
The test is straightforward and requires a simple blood draw by using the process of venipuncture. The following guidelines are important when going for the test;
Preparation
- The test does not require any special preparations
- Fasting is not recommended for the test but your doctor might advise you based on your health condition.
- Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking as certain medications might interfere with the results leading to a false report.
- Make sure that the timing for the test is consistent when monitoring the levels regularly.
Blood Draw
- A trained technologist draws blood from the arm using a needle.
- The sample is then placed in a chemically-treated tube to prevent sample degradation.
- This sample is now delivered to the laboratory for analysis.
Laboratory Analysis
- The sample is analyzed for the presence of CA 19-9 in the blood using highly sensitive immunoassay techniques.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
The healthcare professional recommends this test if an individual is exhibiting symptoms that indicate the presence of pancreatic cancer or abnormalities associated with the bile duct or other gastrointestinal conditions. Some of the symptoms associated with different conditions are mentioned below that warrant this test;
Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms
- Abdominal or back pain that persists for too long
- Weight loss without known reason
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes referred to as Jaundice
- Vomiting
- Urine that is a dark-colored or pale-colored stool
- Diabetes onset
- Worsening of already existing diabetes
Bile Duct or Liver Disorders Symptoms
- Pruritus i.e. itching of the skin
- Weakness or fatigue
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen resulting in the abdominal swelling
- Fever and chills followed by jaundice
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
CA 19-9 normal ranges may vary between the laboratories due to the assay of the test or technology used for measuring CA 19-9 levels. The general reference range is given below;
- Normal – 0 to 37 U/mL
- Slightly elevated – 37 to 100 U/mL (associated with pancreatic or bile-duct obstruction)
- Highly elevated – more than 100 U/mL (associated with cancer)
**For accurate diagnosis and confirmation of the disease it is important to consult your healthcare provider as he will suggest some other test in combination to confirm the diagnosis. **
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
An abnormal level of CA 19-9 indicates the presence of an underlying condition and generally requires further testing and clinical evaluation for the confirmation of the disease. Low levels of CA 19-9 are considered to be normal and usually healthy individuals exhibit it. The most common indications associated with elevated levels are mentioned below;
Elevated Levels of CA 19-9
- Presence of pancreatic cancer
- Cholangiocarcinoma or bile duct cancer
- Chronic or acute pancreatitis
- Obstruction of the bile duct
- Gall stones
- Cirrhosis
- Hepatitis
In case of the presence of abnormalities, the healthcare provider prescribes imaging studies, biopsy, and other tumor marker tests for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Why Choose Genex?
State Of The Art Technology
We use advanced technology and equipment to ensure precise and reliable results. Our cutting-edge tools and methodologies guarantee the highest standards of lab testing.
Highly Skilled Team
Our team consists of skilled technicians trained to handle complex hormonal tests with high accuracy. Each member has years of experience & specialized knowledge to every test.
Fast Turnaround Time
Get your results quickly, helping to make timely decisions regarding your health. We understand the importance of prompt information for effective health management.
Patient-Centered Care
Genex Lab prioritizes your comfort and satisfaction throughout the testing process. Our compassionate approach ensures a supportive and reassuring experience for patients.
Related Tests
- Liver Function Test
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Stool Analysis