The Stomach Cancer Profile comprises a set of blood tests that measure specific biomarkers associated with stomach cancer. The tests included in this profile are CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen), CA19.9 (Carbohydrate Antigen 19.9), and CA72.4. This guide will help understand these tests, their significance, and commonly asked questions about them.
The Stomach Cancer Profile is a set of blood tests that help in the detection and monitoring of stomach cancer. They measure levels of three tumor markers: CEA, CA19.9, and CA72.4.
This profile is typically ordered when a person has symptoms suggesting stomach cancer or when someone has been diagnosed with stomach cancer to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
Note: Home Sample Collection is only for Pathology lab tests.
No, fasting is not required for these tests.
The Stomach Cancer Profile provides levels of the tumor markers CEA, CA19.9, and CA72.4 in the blood. These levels can help in the diagnosis, monitoring, and recurrence tracking of stomach cancer.
The frequency of these tests depends on the individual's health status, the stage of cancer, and the treatment plan. Your doctor will guide you on how often these tests should be done.
Normal values vary, but generally, lower levels of these markers are expected in healthy individuals. However, these levels can also be elevated in conditions other than stomach cancer. Your doctor will interpret the results considering your overall health status and other diagnostic results.
No special precautions are needed for these tests. However, it's important to discuss your full medical history and any medications you're taking with your doctor.
Other medical conditions and certain medications can affect the levels of these markers and, therefore, the test results.
A positive result does not necessarily mean you have stomach cancer. Elevated levels of these markers can be seen in other cancers and non-cancerous conditions as well. However, significant increases might indicate a need for further diagnostic tests.
While blood collection for these tests could be done at home by a professional, it's recommended to have these tests performed at a certified lab to ensure accuracy.
The risks associated with these tests are minimal and related to the blood draw, such as minor pain, bruising, or infection at the needle site.
Results should be interpreted by your doctor who will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results.
Certain medications may affect the test results. Inform your doctor about all the medications you're currently taking.
No. Elevated levels of these markers can be seen in other conditions, including other types of cancers, inflammation, and liver disease, among others.
Yes. Changes in the levels of these markers over time can give valuable information about the response to treatment and the presence of any residual or recurrent disease.
Yes. These markers can be elevated in conditions other than stomach cancer, and they may not be elevated in all people with stomach cancer. Thus, these tests are typically used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods.
If you have abnormal results, your doctor may recommend further diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of stomach cancer or monitor your response to treatment.
Yes. If you have a family history of stomach cancer, your doctor may recommend this profile as part of a routine check-up or screening process.
Yes. These tests can be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. However, it's always best to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Yes. However, stomach cancer is extremely rare in children and adolescents, and these tests are typically not necessary unless there are specific symptoms or a very strong family history of stomach cancer.
In conclusion, the Stomach Cancer Profile is an important tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of stomach cancer. Though these tests have their limitations, they provide crucial information that can guide treatment decisions. Regular consultations with your doctor are crucial in interpreting these results and making informed health decisions.