CA19-9/calprotectin

[Unicorn022]

Hi, has anyone had CA19-9 levels checked when going to the doctor about bowel symptoms (I have ibs). I went back to my doctor again last month because I was passing blood in my stools.I have previously had colonoscopy, endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, CT scan, MRI scan amongst other tests which have all come back with little or no answers. It was the first time I had blood so I had stool sample tests repeated including calprotectin which has previously been high- which lead to the above tests/scans. This time the Calprotectin is in normal range but the CA19-9 has risen to 43. So my question is, should this be investigated? There is a family history of pancreatic and bowel cancer.

[Bellacat21]

hello. I had my CA19 checked last August I had never had this blood test done before. It came back unexpectedly at 66 and I think the cut off is 37. My doctor carried out intensive tests over the last 9 months scans etc and over time the reading has come down to 48. From what I've learned over this time is many things can affect the result.. And also my Dr explained that my natural level may be 48 and not too worry.

I feel very well in myself I have IBS and gallbladder issues I had my GB removed this may also have an effect on results etc plus hormonal stuff can effect. Try not to worry I get checked every three months until my doctor is happy with the blood range.

Take care Victoria

[Unicorn022 in reply to Bellacat21]

Thank for your reply Victoria. I’m glad to hear you are well. My doctor has repeatedly done this blood test and each time it comes back above the “normal range” and they make a point of telling me this but then nothing happens hence why I was wondering if anyone else had investigations solely based on this blood test. I have said to them what is the point in doing the test, telling me it’s raised then leaving it at that.

☺️

[Bellacat21 in reply to Unicorn022]

Hi. When I originally had it done my doctor was quite pro active in the fact he arranged scans and follow up blood tests .. however, like you state they could and have never answered as to why it was raised in the first place. It was through me panic and research that gave me more answers .. I think the fact 9 months later it’s yes still out of range but I’m well and scans on pancreas and liver are clear that the doctor showed no panic. When I asked him why it was elevated like stated earlier he said maybe that is just your natural range .. but I will do a blood test again in six weeks to see where it is at. But I guess because the first time I ever did the blood test it was rather high I never knew where it had naturally elevated from it could always have read at 48 or there abouts I guess ..

I hope you find answers but try not to worry as believe it or not in my readings up on it they said stress could be a factor for elevation …

Thanks Victoria