CA-19.9 is a blood test that measures the level of a protein called carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9). This protein is often elevated in people with certain types of cancer, particularly those of the pancreas, colon, stomach, liver, and biliary tract.

There is usually no specific preparation required for this test, but you should inform your doctor if you are taking any blood-thinning medications or have any bleeding disorders as this may affect the results.

The test is typically performed on a blood sample taken from a vein in the arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Common symptoms that may prompt a doctor to order a CA-19.9 test include abdominal pain, jaundice, and weight loss. However, it is important to note that many people with elevated CA 19-9 levels do not have any symptoms.

Elevated CA-19.9 levels can indicate the presence of cancer, but it is not a specific test for any one type of cancer and a positive result will need to be confirmed by other diagnostic tests such as imaging or biopsy. Elevated levels can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions such as pancreatitis, so it is important that the test results be interpreted in the context of the patient’s overall clinical picture.

Normal reference range for CA-19.9 varies from lab to lab, and it can be affected by various factors, such as age and sex. Generally, levels below 37 U/mL are considered normal. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for the proper interpretation of test results.

It is important to note that this test is not a screening test for cancer and should not be used as such. It should only be ordered and interpreted by a healthcare provider as part of a thorough diagnostic evaluation.