CA-19.9 Test

The CA-19.9 test is a specialized blood examination used to detect the presence and concentration of the CA 19-9 antigen, a carbohydrate tumor marker that plays an important role in diagnosing and monitoring pancreatic and hepatobiliary cancers. Under normal circumstances, only a very small amount of CA-19.9 is detectable in the bloodstream. However, significantly elevated levels may indicate malignant conditions, particularly tumors originating in the pancreas, bile ducts, stomach, colon, or liver.

Clinical studies show that CA-19.9 levels often rise in patients with pancreatic cancer, making it one of the most important tumor markers for managing this disease. Elevated CA-19.9 may also be found in various gastrointestinal malignancies. When used alongside other tumor markers such as CEA, it can help differentiate gallbladder neoplasms in the presence of chronic inflammation.

A continuously increasing CA-19.9 level typically suggests cancer progression or poor response to therapy, whereas decreasing values usually indicate positive treatment outcomes and improved prognosis. The CA-19.9 test is therefore essential not only for initial diagnostic support but also for ongoing monitoring during chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or post-surgical recovery.

Measures serum CA-19.9 antigen levels to support diagnosis and monitoring of pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers.