HE4 blood test in Chiswick
HE4 (human epididymis protein 4) is a tumour-associated marker that clinicians sometimes measure with CA125 when assessing a pelvic mass or monitoring known ovarian disease. It is always read alongside a clinical assessment, never on its own.
What the test measures
HE4 is a protein made in small amounts by tissues of the reproductive and respiratory tracts. Higher levels can be produced by some ovarian tumours, which is why HE4 is used in specialist gynaecology alongside CA125 and imaging. Combining HE4, CA125 and menopausal status in a calculation such as the ROMA score is one way specialists estimate risk when a pelvic mass has already been found.
HE4 is not a screening test for ovarian cancer, and NHS and NICE guidance do not recommend it for people without symptoms. Levels also rise with age, smoking and reduced kidney function, and can be raised in other conditions, so a single result needs careful interpretation by a clinician who knows your history.
The price includes your sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.
Who it is for
- Your specialist has asked for HE4 alongside CA125 to help assess a pelvic mass.
- You are being followed up after treatment and your team monitors HE4.
- You have discussed persistent bloating, pelvic pain or feeling full quickly with your GP and want this marker reviewed with a practitioner.
- You understand that HE4 is a tumour-associated marker and cannot diagnose or rule out cancer.
Understanding your result
Your report shows your HE4 level with the laboratory reference range, which can differ before and after the menopause. A level inside the range is reassuring but does not exclude disease, and a raised result can occur for many reasons, including kidney function, smoking and age.
A raised HE4 is a prompt for clinical review, not a diagnosis. Your practitioner will discuss the result with you sensitively and advise on sharing it with your GP. If you have persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, needing to pass urine more often, or feeling full quickly most days for three weeks or more, NHS advice is to see your GP, whatever any test shows.
Preparing for your test
You do not need to fast. Tell us if you have kidney problems or smoke, as both can affect HE4, and let us know if you are pregnant. If you are being monitored, try to test at the same laboratory each time so results can be compared over time.
For wider health information, the Standard Screen covers blood count, liver and cholesterol, and our kidney function tests help put an HE4 level into context. Find every blood test and price in Chiswick.
Questions
How much is an HE4 blood test in Chiswick?
The HE4 blood test costs £169 at Omnia Lifestyle. It includes your blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.
Can HE4 screen for ovarian cancer?
No. HE4 is a tumour-associated marker used by specialists in specific situations. It is not a screening test and cannot diagnose or rule out cancer.
How is HE4 different from CA125?
Both can be raised by ovarian conditions, but they rise for different benign reasons. Specialists sometimes use them together to give a fuller picture.
What should I do if I have symptoms?
See your GP. Symptoms such as persistent bloating or pelvic pain need a clinical assessment, which may include a CA125 test and an ultrasound scan.
