Blood tests

Currently, no simple blood test exists for detecting or diagnosing pancreatic cancer. A person with pancreatic cancer may have elevated levels of bilirubin and liver enzymes in the blood if the cancer is blocking the bile duct. High levels of certain hormones in the blood may be a sign of a rare pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, such as an insulinoma or gastrinoma.

After diagnosis, there are two types of blood tests that can monitor the progress of a pancreatic tumor.

CA 19-9

Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)

The information and services provided by the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. are for informational purposes only. The information and services are not intended to be substitutes for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are ill, or suspect that you are ill, see a doctor immediately! The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network does not recommend nor endorse any specific physicians, products or treatments even though they may be mentioned on this site. In addition, please note that any personal information you provide to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network's associates during telephone and/or email consultations may be stored in a secure database to assist the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. in providing you with the best service possible. Portions of the constituent data stored in this database may be used to inform future programs and services of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc., and may be provided in aggregate form to third parties to guide future pancreatic cancer research and treatment efforts. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. will not provide personal identifying information (such as your name or contact information) to third parties without your advanced written consent. 111230