Male | 54
Is Elevated CA 19-9 Level Cause for Concern?
Hi, I am a healthy 54 year old male. I have been doing some routine annual lab tests near my home, where they do comprehensive labs for check-up. I have been doing it for several years, and everything is basically normal. However, I just received a lab result, CA 19-9, which is elevated (44), normal is below 34. I actually had this lab test CA 19-9 way back in 7/2022, when the level was 12 (normal). Then I had it in annual testing on 9/2023, and it was 25 (but within normal limits). In the past 6-12 months, I have had normal lactate and amylase levels too. Also, all my other blood test from yesterday were normal, including liver function test (and normal bilirubin), normal CBC, normal CEA level, normal amylase, normal sedimentation rate, normal TSH, normal blood chemistry. Of note, I also had a normal DNA stool test (cologuard) 3 years ago. I also had normal FIT stool test 2 months ago, and also last year (twice it was normal). I have no symptoms and no weight loss, and no signs of jaundice. I am not overweight either, and I do not smoke nor drink alcohol. And no one in my family has had cancer before. As I mentioned, this was incidental, but I would like to know your opinion if this is ominous, and next steps. I have schedule a full body MRI scan for next week too. Thank you.
Surgical Gastroenterologist
Answered on 12th Apr '24
An increase in the level of CA 199 causes an alarm. You will get the most thorough examination if you consult a specialist. However, because CA 199 levels can be associated with certain gastrointestinal conditions, you may want to make an appointment with a gastroenterologist as well.
Related Blogs
Dr. Samrat Jankar- Gastroenterologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon
MBBS, MS, FMAS and DNB (surgical gastroenterology) Surgical Gastroenterologist, Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon, Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgeon 8+ years of rich experience
10 Best Gastroenterologist in the World- Updated 2023
Explore world-class gastroenterologists renowned for their expertise, compassion, and innovative treatments. Experience comprehensive care for digestive health and well-being wherever you are in the world.
New Ulcerative Colitis Treatment: FDA Approval 2022
Discover breakthroughs in ulcerative colitis treatment for adults. Explore new therapies offering hope for symptom relief and improved quality of life. Learn more now!
Dupixent for EOE: Effective Treatment Solutions
Explore the potential of Dupixent for EoE treatment. Learn about its off-label use, effectiveness, and considerations with expert medical guidance.
New Treatment for Gallbladder Cancer- FDA Approved
Unlock hope with new treatments for gallbladder cancer. Explore innovative therapies offering promise for improved outcomes. Learn more now!