Ca72-4

The CA19-9 test, or Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9 test, is a blood test that measures the levels of CA19-9, a tumor marker, in the bloodstream. It is primarily used to monitor pancreatic cancer and other gastrointestinal malignancies, although elevated levels can also occur in non-cancerous conditions. The test is not suitable for cancer screening but is valuable for evaluating patients already diagnosed with these conditions. During the procedure, a healthcare professional collects a blood sample from a vein, which is then analyzed to determine CA19-9 levels. Results are typically available within a few days and are interpreted alongside the patient's medical history and other diagnostic findings. While elevated CA19-9 levels can indicate cancer, they may also result from conditions like pancreatitis or bile duct obstruction. The test has limitations, including variability in CA19-9 expression among individuals, and is most effective when used for serial monitoring in conjunction with other diagnostic tools.

Price of test:£94

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £94

Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

The CA19-9 test measures the levels of the tumor marker CA19-9 in the blood, primarily aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of pancreatic cancer. It is not used for cancer screening but evaluates patients already diagnosed with pancreatic or other gastrointestinal cancers. The test involves a simple blood draw, with results available in a few days. Elevated CA19-9 levels can indicate various conditions, including:

- Pancreatic cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Gallbladder cancer
- Liver cancer
- Bile duct obstruction

Understanding its limitations is crucial for accurate interpretation.

Who Should Get Tested

The CA19-9 test is crucial for patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer or other gastrointestinal malignancies. It measures CA19-9 levels in the blood, aiding in monitoring disease progression. Key points include:

- Purpose: Not for cancer screening; used for monitoring diagnosed patients.
- Procedure: Blood sample collection involves a simple needle insertion.
- Interpretation: Elevated levels may indicate various cancers or non-cancerous conditions.
- Limitations: Not specific; some individuals may not express CA19-9.
- Monitoring: Serial testing helps track treatment effectiveness and potential recurrence.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results is crucial for effective patient care. The CA19-9 test measures the level of cancer antigen 19-9 in the blood, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of pancreatic cancer and other conditions. Elevated CA19-9 levels can indicate:

- Pancreatic cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Gallbladder cancer
- Liver cancer
- Bile duct obstruction
- Cholangitis
- Pancreatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Cystic fibrosis

However, the test has limitations and is not suitable for cancer screening. Serial monitoring helps track disease progression and treatment efficacy.

Price of test:£94

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £94

AI-Powered Insights and Expert Validation

Advanced AI Interpretation

Diagu's AI system represents a breakthrough in medical test analysis, employing state-of-the-art algorithms meticulously trained on a vast spectrum of authoritative medical literature and data. This system intricately analyses laboratory test results, extracting nuanced insights that might elude conventional methods. Our AI delves into complex interrelations between various health markers, offering a comprehensive understanding that supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. The foundation of our AI's analytical prowess lies in its extensive training, encompassing data from globally recognised medical journals, trusted healthcare databases, and breakthrough scientific studies. This ensures that every analysis is grounded in the latest and most comprehensive medical knowledge.

Expert Doctor Confirmation

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Language Model and Trusted Sources

At the core of Diagu's AI system is an advanced language model, engineered to transform complex medical data into clear, comprehensible, and informative descriptions. This model is adept at articulating detailed test analyses in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients. The model's development involved the meticulous processing of high-quality sources, including reputable medical websites, renowned medical textbooks, and peer-reviewed research papers. This ensures that the language used in test descriptions is not only accurate and informative but also up-to-date with the latest medical findings and trends. By leveraging this rich tapestry of trusted sources, our AI system provides a deeper understanding of each test, fostering informed decision-making and enhanced patient care.

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