Overview and Clinical Significance
CA 19-9 (Cancer Antigen 19-9) is a tumor marker primarily associated with pancreatic cancer, but it can also be elevated in colorectal, gastric, and bile duct cancers. It is a glycoprotein produced by cancerous and normal cells, aiding in cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment response assessment.
Clinical Significance
- Pancreatic Cancer Detection & Monitoring: CA 19-9 is commonly used to track pancreatic cancer progression, though it is not a definitive diagnostic tool.
- Other Malignancies & Non-Cancerous Conditions: Elevated CA 19-9 levels can also be seen in colorectal, gastric, and hepatobiliary cancers, as well as benign conditions like pancreatitis and liver disease.
- Treatment Response & Prognostic Value: A decline in CA 19-9 levels during therapy often indicates positive treatment response, while an increase may suggest disease progression.
- Limitations & Complementary Testing: CA 19-9 is not specific to pancreatic cancer, so it is often combined with imaging studies and other biomarkers for a more accurate diagnosis.
CA 19-9 is a key biomarker for pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers, influencing diagnostic accuracy, treatment monitoring, and prognostic evaluations.
