Name of the Procedure:

Immunoassay for Tumor Antigen, Quantitative (e.g., CA 50, 72-4, 549)

Summary

An immunoassay for tumor antigens is a laboratory test that quantitatively measures specific proteins produced by cancer cells in your blood. These antigens can help in diagnosing and monitoring certain types of cancer.

Purpose

This test is used to detect and measure various tumor antigens. The goals include aiding in the diagnosis of cancer, providing information on the severity and spread of disease, and monitoring the efficacy of treatment.

Indications

• Suspected cancer based on symptoms or diagnostic imaging.
• Monitoring known cancer for changes in tumor burden.
• Evaluating response to cancer treatment.
• Screening in high-risk patients.

Preparation

• No special preparation is usually required.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Some tests may require fasting or medication adjustments, but this is rare.

Procedure Description

1. Blood Draw: A sample of your blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm.
2. Laboratory Analysis: The blood sample is sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using immunoassay techniques to measure the levels of specific tumor antigens.
3. Results: Results are interpreted by a healthcare provider to guide further diagnostic or treatment decisions.

Duration

• The blood draw typically takes 5-10 minutes.
• Laboratory analysis may take a few hours to a few days.

Setting

• The blood draw can be performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or diagnostic lab.

Personnel

• The procedure is typically performed by a phlebotomist or a nurse.
• A laboratory technician and a pathologist are involved in analyzing the sample.

Risks and Complications

• Minor risks include bruising, bleeding, or infection at the needle site.
• Rarely, patients may feel faint or dizzy.

Benefits

• Provides valuable information for diagnosing and managing cancer.
• Non-invasive with minimal discomfort.

Recovery

• No significant recovery time is needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary based on test results.

Alternatives

• Imaging studies (e.g., CT scans, MRI).
• Biopsy or other tissue sampling for histopathological analysis.
• Other blood tests or tumor marker assays.

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel a slight pinch during the blood draw.
• Minimal to no pain is expected.
• Any discomfort is usually brief, and normal activities can be resumed immediately.