Types of imaging testsīefore having scans, tell the doctor if you have any allergies or have had a reaction to dyes during previous scans. Different scans can provide different details about the cancer. Imaging scans are tests that create pictures of the inside of the body. Your doctor will look for sharp increases and overall patterns. It is normal for the levels of these tumour markers to go up and down a little.

The levels of tumour markers can’t be used to diagnose pancreatic cancer on their own, but they may tell your doctor more about the cancer or how well the treatment is working. Other conditions can also raise the levels of these markers in the bloodstream, while some people with pancreatic cancer have normal levels. Many people with pancreatic cancer have higher levels of the tumour markers CA 19-9 (carbohydrate antigen) and CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen). These proteins are known as tumour markers. Some blood tests look for proteins produced by cancer cells. You are likely to have blood tests to check your general health and see how well your liver and kidneys are working. It will help you with what questions to ask your health professionals to make sure you receive the best care at every step. The guide to best cancer care for pancreatic cancer can help you make sense of what should happen. A lot can happen in a hurry when you’re diagnosed with cancer.

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