Blood Test For Cancer

What is a blood test for cancer detection?

Blood tests are among the several ways a doctor can use to diagnose, stage, and manage cancer. Additional testing is also needed to detect most types of cancer, as blood work alone cannot do it. A blood test for cancer markers can be beneficial in detecting blood cancers like: 

• Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Multiple Myeloma 

4 Types of Blood Tests for Cancer 

A blood test for cancer markers is usually categorized into the following: 

1. Complete blood count (CBC)

A complete blood count test helps measure red and white blood cell and platelet levels. Any abnormality, such as high or low blood cells or platelets, may indicate cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma. A complete blood count test cannot detect lung, breast, or colon cancers. Additionally, a CBC test can help experts see if cancer has progressed to the bone marrow and how your body is reacting to the targeted therapies, like chemotherapy. 

2. Tumor markers

A blood test for cancer markers is suggested to detect solid organ cancer. Tumor markers are substances that are present in or made by cancerous cells or other body cells in response to cancer. 

Tumor marker blood tests include: 

• Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test: Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a common tumor marker found in blood tests that helps measure the levels of alpha-fetoprotein produced by the liver. The levels above 400 ng/mL may indicate a liver tumor or liver cancer. 
• CA-125 blood test: The CA-125 blood test is commonly used to see if ovarian cancer treatment is working and to detect its recurrence. A CA-125 is a substance in your blood that may indicate a condition or cancer. A CA125 level beyond 35 U/mL can be a sign of ovarian cancer. 
• Calcitonin test: A calcitonin test is often suggested to help diagnose C-cell hyperplasia and medullary thyroid cancer. Values more than 100 pg/mL may indicate metastases of head and neck cancer,
• Cancer antigens 15-3 and 27-29: CA 15-3 and CA 27-29 are proteins produced by cancer cells, used to monitor breast cancer. CA 27-29 is more sensitive than CA15-3 to detect breast cancer. However, its overall uses and limitations are similar to those of CA 15-3. 
• Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) for a range of cancers.Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) for a range of cancers. This tumor marker test helps detect a range of cancers, including colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, stomach cancer, and pancreatic cancer. Additionally, this blood test for cancer patients is used to monitor treatment response, detect cancer recurrence, and occasionally assist in diagnosis. 
• Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) tests: Also known as a pregnancy test, the HCG levels help identify a normal pregnancy, a pathological pregnancy, and an aborted pregnancy. A result above 25 mIU/mL is considered a positive HCG test. It can also be used to detect and track other cancers, such as testicular cancer and ovarian cancer. 
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA): The PSA test is a blood test for prostate cancer that measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. 

3. Blood protein testing

A healthcare provider suggests the test to check for abnormal protein levels in your blood. Elevated protein levels in your blood could mean a certain type of cancer, such as lymphoma, leukemia, or multiple myeloma. 

Additionally, a total protein and albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio is often included in a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP). It may also be used to help diagnose diseases related to the kidney, liver, or nutritional deficiencies. 

4. Circulating tumor cell (CTC) test

The circulating tumor test is a newly introduced blood test for cancer. It checks for cancerous cells that break off into tiny pieces and circulate in your bloodstream. A CTC test is a type of liquid biopsy that helps a healthcare provider look for substances in blood or tissues to monitor cancer growth and cancer treatment in individuals with metastatic cancer, prostate, or colon cancer. High CTC levels require additional testing. 

What additional tests will I need for a cancer diagnosis?

A blood test for cancer detection may not be enough, and you need other tests to get a cancer diagnosis, such as: 

• Biopsy. A bone marrow biopsy involves taking a tissue sample and sending it to a laboratory for analysis 
• Imaging Tests use different forms of energy such as X-rays, CT (computed tomography) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, or PET (positron emission tomography). Imaging tests help doctors locate and stage tumors. 
• Specialized Tests: Additionally, other specialized tests such as bone scans, a mammogram to diagnose breast cancer, and a PAP smear test to detect cervical cancer.

Can early cancer be detected in blood work?

Early cancer cannot be detected in routine blood work. There are specialized blood tests for cancer detection that can detect early-stage cancers in some people: 

• The Galleri Test: The Galleri blood test for cancer markers is suggested to detect more than 50 different types of cancer. It is a type of multicancer early detection (MCED) test that your doctor can order. It uses your blood sample and checks for proteins or genetic factors that signal the presence of cancer in your body. 
• Proteomics-based plasma test: Proteomics is the study of proteins in cells. A proteomics-based plasma test is a new type of blood test for cancer detection that shows promise for the early detection of 18 different types of cancer. 

A study conducted on 440 individuals detected 93% of stage 1 cancers in males and 84% of stage 1 cancers in females. However, more studies are needed. Still, this blood test for cancer could become a standard for cancer diagnosis. 

Note: It is challenging to detect early-stage cancers, but routine cancer screenings can be beneficial in identifying certain types of cancer before symptoms appear. 

Test Details 

How can you prepare for a blood test to detect cancer?

Your doctor will provide the necessary instructions for preparing for your blood test. These recommendations may vary depending on the type of blood test used for cancer detection. 

It may be necessary to refrain from eating or drinking (except water) for 8-12 hours before the test. Additionally, you may be advised to discontinue taking certain medications before the test. Their ingredients can interfere with the test results. 

What should you expect during a blood test for cancer?

A blood test for cancer markers only takes 5 minutes. Your healthcare provider/phlebotomist will: 

• Search for a suitable vein in your arm. 
• Then, he will apply a tourniquet band around your upper arm. 
• Then, he will clean the injection site with a disinfectant and insert a needle into that area, which may give you a stinging or pinching feeling. 
• Then, he will remove the band, attach a blood collection tube to the needle, and draw blood into it. 
• Then, he will put pressure on the injection site to help stop any bleeding. 
• Then, apply a bandage to the affected area of your skin. 
• Lastly, he will send your blood sample to the lab for analysis. 

What can you expect after the blood work is complete?

After a blood test for cancer, do not remove your bandage and avoid strenuous exercise for a few hours. Keeping a bandage on can prevent infection, and strenuous physical activity can lead to hormone fluctuations. 

What are the risks or side effects associated with a blood test for cancer?

Blood tests are generally safe and carry minimal risks, including small bruises at the needle site, vein swelling, or slight discomfort. Applying a warm compress to the area where the needle was inserted into your skin can help reduce pain. 

Can I have a blood test for pancreatic cancer?

Yes, a doctor may suggest a blood test for pancreatic cancer, such as the CA 19-9 test, to help measure the amount of a protein called CA 19-9 in your blood sample. 

What is a blood test for cancer markers?

Also known as a tumor marker test, a blood test for cancer markers helps measure the levels of specific proteins, hormones, or other substances in the blood that may indicate the presence of cancer. These substances, known as tumor markers, are either produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to the presence of cancer.

Results and Follow-Up 

When are the results of a blood test for cancer available?

The availability of results of a blood test for cancer depends on the type of test. They are available in a day, two, or might take several days. 

What should I do if my blood test results are abnormal?

If your cancer blood test results show abnormalities, your healthcare provider may refer you to a cancer specialist (oncologist). He will review your report, and additional testing may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. 

Can a lipid panel indicate cancer?

No, a lipid panel test doesn’t indicate cancer. It is usually ordered to measure cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. It also helps your healthcare provider learn about your chances of developing cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and heart attack. 

Can I have cancer if my blood tests are normal?

Yes, it is possible to get diagnosed with cancer if your blood test results are normal. This is because routine blood work alone cannot detect cancer; leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma are a few exceptions. 

What is the cost of a blood test for cancer? 

The cost of a blood test for cancer patients depends on the type of test you will have. Compared to other diagnostic centers, Redcliffe Labs offers cancer blood tests at the best available rates, ensuring our diagnostic services are accessible to all. 

A Message from Redcliffe Labs

Unless it gets confirmed that you have cancer, you are anxious and unable to focus on your day-to-day activities. Your doctor will suggest several tests to confirm a diagnosis, including analyzing your blood sample for cancer. Consult your doubts and concerns, and what do your specific test results mean?

Step-by-step information on booking a test online:

1. Visit the official Redcliffe Labs website: https://redcliffelabs.com/.
2. Browse or search for the specific test you need. 
3. Add the test to the cart. 
4. Complete the payment process online.

Note: You will receive confirmation through SMS and WhatsApp.