Cancer antigen is a protein that resides on the surface of cancer cells. It is a beneficial tumor marker, the tumor cell sheds the protein and the protein enters the blood stream. The Cancer Antigen 19-9 blood test is used in the detection of pancreatic or gastrointestinal cancer.

The test measures the levels of protein created by gastrointestinal and pancreatic cancer. It acts as an early detection measure. The earlier pancreatic cancer is detected; the more effective the treatments. Over 70% of patients with advanced colorectal cancer have elevated levels of cancer antigen 19-9.

The CA 19-9 also detects cancers like colorectal cancers. An increase amount of these proteins may indicate other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, liver disease, pancreatitis and other conditions. There are small amounts of CA 19-9 in the body. Normal levels are under40 U/ML.

Physicians also use this test to track the progression of the treatments. If the treatments are successful, the levels will decrease. If the tumor returns, the levels will rise. Health Testing Centers offers this and other blood tests at their centers across the nation.