The IHC - CA19.9 test, or immunohistochemistry for Carbohydrate Antigen 19.9, is a diagnostic investigation primarily used in oncology. CA19.9 is a tumor marker commonly associated with pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers. This test uses the immunohistochemistry technique, which involves using antibodies that bind to specific antigens in the tissue sample. This binding is then visualized under a microscope, allowing doctors to determine the presence and level of CA19.9 in the tissue.
While CA19.9 levels are most commonly elevated in pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers, this marker can also be elevated in other conditions, including benign disorders of the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Therefore, this test should be used alongside other diagnostic measures to confirm a diagnosis. It is also important to remember that not all cancers cause an increase in CA19.9, and not all increases in CA19.9 are due to cancer.
Test NameIHC - CA19.9
Sample TypeTissue
Preparations RequiredNo fasting or any specific preparation is required. Continue with your regular diet and medication unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.
Report Time3 days
What is the IHC - CA19.9 test used for?
The IHC - CA19.9 test is primarily used to monitor the response to treatment in individuals diagnosed with pancreatic or gastrointestinal cancers.
What does a positive result indicate?
A positive result indicates the presence of CA19.9 in the tissue sample. This is often associated with pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers but can also be seen in other conditions.
Home Sample Collection Process
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Book your convenient slot
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Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
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Reporting of the sample at lab
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Download Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
No, this test is not recommended as a screening tool due to its lack of sensitivity and specificity.
The pain associated with this test is minimal and is linked to the biopsy procedure used to collect the tissue sample.
Yes, elevations in CA19.9 can occur in conditions other than cancer, leading to false-positive results. Always interpret the results in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and clinical findings.
The turn around time for the results typically ranges from 7 to 10 days, but this can vary depending on the laboratory.
A tissue sample is required for the IHC - CA19.9 test. This sample is typically obtained through a biopsy.
Yes, an increase in CA19.9 levels can indicate a recurrence of cancer. However, other diagnostic measures should also be used to confirm recurrence.
The IHC - CA19.9 test is often used alongside other tests such as imaging studies, other tumor marker tests, and histopathological examination of tissues.
No, a negative result does not definitively rule out cancer. Some cancers do not produce CA19.9, and therefore, this test can yield negative results even in the presence of cancer.
No specific preparation is needed for this test. You can continue your regular diet and medications unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.
Yes, the results of this test can help guide treatment decisions and monitor the effectiveness of the chosen treatment regimen.
The tissue sample for the IHC - CA19.9 test is typically obtained through a biopsy procedure.
No, the IHC - CA19.9 test is not typically used for early detection of cancer. It is more commonly used to monitor response to treatment or detect recurrence in individuals already diagnosed with cancer.
The frequency of this test should be determined by your healthcare provider, based on your individual health condition and the type and stage of your cancer.
The main risks associated with the IHC - CA19.9 test are those related to the biopsy procedure used to obtain the tissue sample.
Yes, this test is often used to monitor how well a patient is responding to treatment. Changes in CA19.9 levels can provide insight into the effectiveness of the treatment regimen.
Factors such as non-cancerous liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic conditions can affect the test results, leading to false-positive results.
Yes, this test can be performed on individuals of any age, including children, if indicated by a healthcare provider.
Coverage for the IHC - CA19.9 test varies among health insurance providers. It's always a good idea to check with your insurance company to understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.
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