Tumour markers, Chiswick W4

Tumour marker blood tests in Chiswick

Tumour markers such as PSA, CA125, CEA and CA 19-9 are substances that can be raised in some cancers, and also in many conditions that are not cancer. We offer them in Chiswick from £49, always with a practitioner who explains what a result can and cannot tell you.

17 tests from £49, explained in person

Tumour markers are not a reliable way to screen for cancer if you have no symptoms. No tumour marker is accurate enough to screen the general population. A normal result does not rule cancer out, and a raised result often has another cause, such as an enlarged prostate, endometriosis, pregnancy, gallstones or liver disease. Doctors mainly use these tests alongside scans and biopsies when cancer is already suspected, and to monitor treatment.

If you have symptoms that worry you, see your GP rather than booking a private test. Symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, a new lump, blood in your pee or poo, a change in bowel habit, persistent bloating or difficulty swallowing should be assessed by a GP, who can arrange the right tests and, if needed, an urgent referral to a specialist.

Some people still choose a tumour marker test, for example to follow up an earlier result or after a full discussion of its limits. At Omnia Lifestyle in Chiswick, your sample is analysed at the Randox accredited laboratory, you do not need a GP referral, and a practitioner explains every result with you in person, with a GP feedback report on request. If a result is raised, we will explain the possible reasons and help you arrange follow-up with your GP.

Prostate (PSA)

PSA blood tests for men who have weighed up the pros and cons of testing, ideally with a practitioner or GP.

Ovarian (CA125 and HE4)

CA125 and related markers, which doctors read alongside an ultrasound scan when ovarian problems are suspected.

Other single tumour markers

Individual markers usually requested to follow up a known condition or an earlier result, always read with a clinical assessment.

Tumour marker panels

Combined panels for people who understand the limits of tumour markers and want a broader picture, reviewed with a practitioner.

Questions

How much does a tumour marker blood test cost in Chiswick?

Single tumour marker tests start at £49 for CEA, with CA125, CA 15-3 and PSA at £59 and CA 19-9 at £69. Our Tumour Marker Panel, covering seven markers, costs £99, and the Discovery Screen with Tumour Markers costs £399. Every price includes a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.

Can a tumour marker blood test screen me for cancer?

No. Tumour markers are not reliable screening tests for people without symptoms. None is accurate enough to screen the general population, so a normal result does not rule cancer out and a raised result does not mean you have cancer. The NHS runs screening programmes for bowel, breast and cervical cancer, and these remain the recommended way to be screened for those cancers.

Why might a tumour marker be raised if I do not have cancer?

Many everyday conditions can raise tumour markers. CA125 can rise during periods, in pregnancy, with endometriosis and with pelvic inflammatory disease. PSA can rise with an enlarged or inflamed prostate. CA 19-9 can rise with gallstones, pancreatitis and liver disease, and CA 15-3 with liver conditions and benign breast disease. This is why results are always read with your symptoms and history.

What should I do if I have symptoms I am worried about?

See your GP. Symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, a new lump, blood in your pee or poo, a change in bowel habit, persistent bloating or difficulty swallowing should be assessed by a doctor. Your GP can arrange the right tests and, if needed, an urgent referral to a specialist. A private tumour marker test should never delay this. Call 999 or go to A&E if you feel severely unwell.

When are tumour markers useful?

Tumour markers are most useful when cancer is already suspected or has been diagnosed. Doctors use them alongside scans and biopsies, and to monitor how well treatment is working or whether a cancer has come back. A definite diagnosis of cancer is made from a biopsy, not a blood test. If you are being monitored, follow the plan agreed with your specialist team.

Is PSA different from other tumour markers?

PSA is the marker men ask about most. Prostate Cancer UK says men over 50 can ask their GP about the test, and recommends a conversation from 45 for Black men and men with a family history. PSA can be raised by an enlarged prostate, infection, recent ejaculation or vigorous exercise, so our practitioner will explain the pros and cons before you decide to test.

Related tests and guides

These tests do not replace care from your GP. If you have worsening symptoms, unexplained weight loss, bleeding or severe pain, please see a doctor first. For chest pain or signs of a stroke, call 999.

Book your blood test in Chiswick

Omnia Lifestyle, 8 to 9 Bedford Corner, The Avenue, Chiswick, London W4 1LZ. Two minutes from Turnham Green station, with buses 94, E3 and 272 nearby. No GP referral needed.

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