Want to check the slip with us first? Call 8872524007.
What the CA 19-9 test checks
CA 19-9 (carbohydrate antigen 19-9) is a sugar-protein molecule made by cells lining the pancreas, bile ducts, stomach and bowel. The result is given in units per millilitre (U/mL).
One quirk matters: people who are "Lewis antigen negative", roughly 5 to 10 percent of the population, can't make CA 19-9 at all. In them the result stays low whatever happens, and the test isn't useful.
Why your doctor may order it
- a baseline before treatment of pancreatic, bile duct or gallbladder cancer;
- checking whether treatment is working, as a falling level is encouraging;
- follow-up after surgery, to catch a rise early;
- sometimes with CEA and scans when a growth in the pancreas or bile ducts has been found.
It isn't recommended for screening people who have no symptoms.
How to prepare
No fasting is needed for CA 19-9. If your doctor has added liver tests or sugar on the same slip, follow any fasting instruction for those. Tell us about jaundice, recent gallstone pain or pancreatitis, as these strongly affect the result. Mention high-dose biotin supplements as well.
Sample type and report time
One serum sample from the arm. It's collected at Alpha Laboratory and processed in-house or at a partner reference laboratory, depending on the test. The report usually takes 1–3 working days; we'll tell you the expected date when you book.
For patients recovering from surgery, home sample collection is available. Book on 8872524007.
Understanding your results
Many labs use 37 U/mL as the upper limit, and the range printed on your report is the one that applies; ranges vary by lab and method.
Raised CA 19-9 can be associated with pancreatic and bile duct cancers, and with other gut cancers. It's also raised in blocked bile ducts, gallstones, cholangitis, pancreatitis, liver disease, some lung conditions and poorly controlled diabetes. Once a blockage is relieved, the level often falls. Your doctor reads the value with your scans, bilirubin and earlier results.
FAQ
Can a CA 19-9 test diagnose pancreatic cancer?
No. It can be high without cancer and normal with cancer. Diagnosis rests on scans and often a biopsy.
Why is my CA 19-9 high after a gallstone attack?
Bile duct blockage and inflammation push CA 19-9 up, sometimes very high. Doctors usually recheck after the blockage clears.
Where can I get a ca 19 9 test near me in Banur?
If you're searching for a ca 19 9 test near me, we collect it at our lab on M.C. Road, Banur, and at homes in Banur and nearby villages.
Should I repeat it at the same lab?
It helps. Methods differ, so serial results from one lab are easier for your doctor to compare.
Book at Alpha Laboratory
Book your CA 19-9 test by calling 8872524007 or WhatsApp us. Bring your scan report and old results. Hours are on our contact page.