CA 72.4 (Gastric Cancer Marker)
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
No special preparation needed.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
CA 72-4 is a tumour marker that may be raised in stomach cancer and some ovarian and bowel cancers. It is mainly used to monitor treatment, not to screen healthy people.
Why is this test done?
- Monitor stomach cancer treatment
- Look for recurrence after surgery
- Support diagnosis with other tests
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Known stomach or ovarian cancer
- Upper belly pain and fullness
- Weight loss and vomiting
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
A high or rising CA 72-4 can mean cancer activity, but it can also rise in non-cancer conditions.
Common reasons- Stomach cancer
- Ovarian or colorectal cancer
- Pancreatitis, liver disease or gastritis
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Blood sample taken
A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm with a sealed, single-use needle. It takes about 2 minutes.
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in same day after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a blood sample. No special preparation needed.