CA 19.9

The CA 19-9 test is primarily used for monitoring disease progression, assessing response to treatment, and detecting the recurrence of cancer, especially in patients with pancreatic cancer. It is not typically used as a standalone diagnostic tool, as elevated CA 19-9 levels can be observed in non-cancerous conditions, and some individuals with pancreatic cancer may have normal CA 19-9 levels.

The test involves a blood sample being drawn from a vein, usually in the arm. The collected blood is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The CA 19-9 levels are measured using techniques like enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA).