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Which blood tests may suggest pancreatic cancer?

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An anatomical illustration of the human pancreas shows its location near the stomach and intestines, a detailed cross-section highlighting ducts and the islet of Langerhans, and an inset of pancreatic tissue histology with labeled alpha, beta, and delta cells. — pancreatic cancer The human pancreas is composed of two main types of tissue: acinar cells and islets of Langerhans. The acinar cells produce digestive enzymes, which are secreted into tiny ducts that feed into the pancreatic duct. Islets of Langerhans are clusters of cells that secrete hormones such as insulin and glucagon directly into a capillary network, which also joins the pancreatic duct.

Blood tests that may suggest the presence of pancreatic cancer include those that assess various pancreatic and liver functions.1

Additionally, physicians may look for specific tumor markers in the blood. A notable example is CA 19-9, which serves as an indicator for pancreatic or gastrointestinal cancers. While these tests can provide diagnostic clues, they are typically used in conjunction with other diagnostic procedures, such as imaging techniques (e.g., CAT scans, MRI, or ultrasound) or invasive procedures like a biopsy or endoscopy, to confirm a diagnosis and determine the stage of the disease.21