Hi,
What is a CA19-9 blood test please - what is this testing for?
I last had one in November 2023 where the result was 203. I had it repeated last week and it has jumped to 908. Presumably this is not good news, although there nothing seems to have been expedited?
Google says it's a blood test for pancreatic cancer - no scans etc have previously indicated any issues with the pancreas.
Thanks
Hi Glass Not Full,
Thanks for reaching out to us here at Macmillan Cancer Support. My name is Donna, I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists here at the Support Line.
You are understandably concerned and have some questions about a recent blood test you had.
Some cancers produce proteins in the blood called tumour markers. CA19-9 is a known tumour marker and has been shown to be raised in a few cancers for instance pancreatic, stomach, gallbladder and colorectal.
Tumour markers are not commonly used to make a cancer diagnosis as they are not reliable at this stage. If a doctor suspected cancer we would expect further investigations such as scans, and biopsy to be carried out. Doctors tend to use tumour markers either for baseline levels prior to treatment or for follow up after treatment.
Levels of CA19-9 can also be raised in a number of benign (non-cancerous) conditions.
The uncertainty of not knowing what is going on, can be difficult. We would encourage you to speak to your GP/doctor to better understand what the blood test means for you and what further investigations, if any, are needed.
I hope this information has been helpful for you.
Take care and best wishes,
Donna,
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref: DW/LA
