CA19.9 – Pancreatic Cancer Marker

Description:

The CA 19.9 test measures the level of Cancer Antigen 19.9 (CA 19.9) in the blood. CA 19.9 is a protein commonly associated with pancreatic cancer but can also be elevated in other cancers and non-cancerous conditions.

Purpose of the Test:

•Monitor pancreatic cancer: Used to track disease progression and response to treatment.

•Assist in diagnosis: Helps in the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer when used alongside imaging and other clinical tests.

•Detect recurrence: Monitors for potential recurrence of pancreatic cancer after treatment.

•Evaluate other gastrointestinal cancers: May be used for cancers of the stomach, bile ducts, colon, or gallbladder.

Conditions That May Elevate CA 19.9 Levels:

•Pancreatic cancer (primary purpose)

•Gallbladder and bile duct cancers

•Liver diseases (e.g., cirrhosis, hepatitis)

•Non-cancerous conditions like pancreatitis, gallstones, or bile duct obstruction

Key Notes:

•Elevated CA 19.9 levels are not specific to pancreatic cancer and can occur in various benign conditions.

•It is most useful for monitoring treatment response and recurrence in confirmed pancreatic cancer cases.

•Not recommended as a standalone test for cancer diagnosis. Imaging studies and other biomarkers are often required for a definitive diagnosis.

Description:

The CA 19.9 test measures the level of Cancer Antigen 19.9 (CA 19.9) in the blood. CA 19.9 is a protein commonly associated with pancreatic cancer but can also be elevated in other cancers and non-cancerous conditions.

Purpose of the Test:

•Monitor pancreatic cancer: Used to track disease progression and response to treatment.

•Assist in diagnosis: Helps in the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer when used alongside imaging and other clinical tests.

•Detect recurrence: Monitors for potential recurrence of pancreatic cancer after treatment.

•Evaluate other gastrointestinal cancers: May be used for cancers of the stomach, bile ducts, colon, or gallbladder.

Conditions That May Elevate CA 19.9 Levels:

•Pancreatic cancer (primary purpose)

•Gallbladder and bile duct cancers

•Liver diseases (e.g., cirrhosis, hepatitis)

•Non-cancerous conditions like pancreatitis, gallstones, or bile duct obstruction

Key Notes:

•Elevated CA 19.9 levels are not specific to pancreatic cancer and can occur in various benign conditions.

•It is most useful for monitoring treatment response and recurrence in confirmed pancreatic cancer cases.

•Not recommended as a standalone test for cancer diagnosis. Imaging studies and other biomarkers are often required for a definitive diagnosis.