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What Does Abnormal Results In CA19-9 Test Indicate?
My dad had abnormal results form the CA19-9 test. he is having a scan on Friday. We are all scared. they did the test because of his weight loss, not gaining weight. (Although he said he gained 3 pounds this week). He also has a low red blood cell count (which I am told is unrelated). He is a tea drinker..which I am told can create an abnormal result in the blood test. I understand the test to not be diagnostic because it can show up in benign cases. He no longer has a gallbladder, he is a scotch drinker (at least one a day on average), he has had dibericulitis and part of his colon removed. His dad had colon cancer-although that is not what took his life. How scared should I be? He also struggles with diet/diabetes.
Thu, 12 Jun 2014
Hi,
Thanks for choosing healthcaremagic.
CA19-9 is a tumor marker which is used to assess whether any tumor is present. It is a tumor marker for the pancreas and is elevated usually in cases of pancreatic tumors. As it is abnormal there are chances that your dad has a pancreatic tumor. He should undergo a CT-Scan for evaluation of the pancreas which will help in determining whether tumor is present and if present the stage of the tumor. Staging is important as it will decide further course and management. Earlier stages have better prognosis. Diabetes, diverticulitis and other problems are secondary. Please concentrate on the pancreatic problem first and try to get it cured.
Hope it sorts your problem and wishing your dad a speedy recovery.
Regards,
Dr. Pankaj Nagori
Specialist Radiologist
Thanks for choosing healthcaremagic.
CA19-9 is a tumor marker which is used to assess whether any tumor is present. It is a tumor marker for the pancreas and is elevated usually in cases of pancreatic tumors. As it is abnormal there are chances that your dad has a pancreatic tumor. He should undergo a CT-Scan for evaluation of the pancreas which will help in determining whether tumor is present and if present the stage of the tumor. Staging is important as it will decide further course and management. Earlier stages have better prognosis. Diabetes, diverticulitis and other problems are secondary. Please concentrate on the pancreatic problem first and try to get it cured.
Hope it sorts your problem and wishing your dad a speedy recovery.
Regards,
Dr. Pankaj Nagori
Specialist Radiologist
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