Cancer Tumor Marker Blood Tests: CA 125, CA 19-9 & More Panels

They measure specific proteins and antigens in blood, such as CA 125, CA 19-9, CA 15-3, and CA 27.29, that can be elevated in people with certain cancers. Depending on the panel tier, 23 to 65 biomarkers are covered. Results are meant to be reviewed with your doctor alongside your history and any other testing.

No, tumor marker tests measure proteins associated with certain cancers, but they are not intended to confirm any disease on their own. Levels can be elevated for non-cancer reasons; CA 125, for example, can rise with endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammation. Doctors interpret marker results alongside imaging, examinations, and other labs.

Yes, the partner's online ordering system lets you purchase tumor marker testing directly and schedule your own lab draw, with no doctor's appointment required to place the order. Results are delivered with clear explanations you can bring to your physician.

No, direct-to-consumer lab testing is restricted or prohibited in New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, so residents of those states may be blocked at the partner's checkout. If you live elsewhere in the US, you can typically order online and visit a local draw site.

Both follow the same four tiers, Basic, Basic Plus, Advanced, and Comprehensive, but each version groups tumor markers more commonly tracked for that sex, which is why the biomarker counts differ slightly between the men's and women's editions. Individual tests such as CA 125 or CA 19-9 can also be ordered on their own.

There is no universal schedule, the right cadence depends on why you and your doctor are tracking a marker. Because single readings can fluctuate, many clinicians pay more attention to the trend across repeat tests than to any one value. Ask your physician what interval makes sense for your situation.