CA 19-9

Medical abbreviation · Hematology and Oncology

CA 19-9
Stands forCarbohydrate antigen 19-9
CategoriesMedical

CA 19-9 stands for Carbohydrate antigen 19-9, a hematology and oncology abbreviation.

Tumor marker measured in blood, mainly in pancreatic cancer and bile duct cancers, to support diagnosis, gauge prognosis and monitor response to treatment. Very high levels before surgery suggest more advanced disease.

Example: CA 19-9 fell from 2,400 to 180 U/mL after four cycles of FOLFIRINOX.

Usage notes

People who lack the Lewis blood group antigen, roughly 5 to 10 percent of the population, cannot produce CA 19-9, so a normal value does not exclude cancer. Bile duct blockage, pancreatitis and cholangitis also raise levels, so results should be interpreted after relief of jaundice. It is not recommended for screening people without symptoms.

More hematology and oncology abbreviations

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  • Ca – Cancer (carcinoma)
  • CA-125 – Cancer antigen 125
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  • CAR-T – Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy
  • CAT – Cancer-associated thrombosis
  • CEA – Carcinoembryonic antigen
  • chemo – Chemotherapy

See all 144 hematology and oncology abbreviations →

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.