20 x Pancreatic Cancer Tumour Marker Professional GP CA19-9 Blood Test Kits

What is Pancreatic Cancer Tumour Marker (CA19-9)?

Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9) is a protein that exists on the surface of certain cells. CA 19-9 does not cause cancer; rather, it is a protein that is produced by the tumour cells, making it useful as a tumour marker to follow the course of the cancer.

CA 19-9 is elevated in most patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, but it may also be elevated in other cancers and diseases such as bowel cancer, lung cancer and gall bladder cancer, as well as in benign diseases such as gall stones, pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and liver disease. Because elevated levels of CA 19-9 are seen in many diseases, elevated levels do not necessary mean the presence of pancreatic cancer.  Very small amounts of CA19-9 may also be found in healthy patients.

Why is CA 19-9 tested for?

CA 19-9 is used as a tumour marker:

• to help tell the difference between cancer of the pancreas and bile ducts an
• other non-cancerous conditions, such as pancreatitis.
• to monitor a patient’s response to pancreatic cancer treatment.
• to look for pancreatic cancer recurrence.

To understand more about Pancreatic cancer please visit the Pancreatic Charity website where you will find detailed information and help on the condition.

* This kit assumes you are a medical professional and already have a fingertip blood collection device (e.g. safety lancet).

View and download the professional test instructions.