Cancer marker blood tests measure proteins that can be raised by certain cancers: PSA for the prostate, CA125 and HE4 for the ovaries, and AFP, hCG and LDH for testicular tumours. They are useful for investigating symptoms, monitoring a known condition and for people with a strong family history, but a marker on its own does not diagnose cancer.
Blood London offers three cancer marker panels at Harley Street. PSA pairs total and free PSA so the ratio can be calculated. CA125 combines CA125 with HE4 and the ROMA score, which is more informative than CA125 alone. Testicular Cancer measures AFP, hCG and LDH, the three markers used in testicular tumour assessment.
Each panel has a fixed price covering the laboratory work and a structured report. The £50 phlebotomy fee is added in the cart. Results are sent by email, and a doctor review is available as an optional extra so any raised marker is explained and followed up properly.
No single marker diagnoses cancer. Markers can be raised by benign conditions and normal in early cancer. They are used with examination, imaging and history, which is why a doctor review is recommended for any raised result.
An enlarged prostate, prostatitis, urine infection, recent ejaculation, vigorous exercise and a recent prostate examination. Avoid ejaculation and cycling for 48 hours before the test.
Most markers are reported within 1 to 3 working days. The turnaround for each panel is shown on its page.