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CA 242 is a high-molecular-weight glycoprotein, similar to CA 19-9, but with higher sensitivity and specificity for malignant tumors. It is produced by epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and is found in nearly all patients with gastrointestinal tumors, particularly pancreatic, colon, and rectal cancer.

CA 242 is secreted by tumor cells and enters the bloodstream, making it an important tumor marker for early diagnosis and disease monitoring.

Key Advantage of CA 242

Unlike CA 19-9, CA 242 levels remain low in benign gastrointestinal conditions, allowing for better differentiation between malignant and benign diseases.

Additionally, CA 242 can help predict colorectal cancer recurrence 5–6 months in advance.

  • Sample: Blood drawn from a vein.
  • Fasting for 6–8 hours before the test is required.
  • Discontinue medications 24 hours before the test (if approved by the doctor).
  • Monitoring treatment effectiveness for pancreatic, colon, and rectal cancer
  • Detecting cancer recurrence
  • Differentiating malignant tumors from benign GI diseases (e.g., pancreatitis, liver diseases)
  • Symptoms of pancreatic cancer, including:
    • Abdominal pain
    • Nausea
    • Weight loss
    • Jaundice
  • Suspected colorectal cancer (used alongside other tumor markers)

Interpretation of CA 242 Levels

Low or Decreasing CA 242 Levels:

  • Normal range
  • Positive response to treatment
  • Benign gastrointestinal conditions, such as:
    • Pancreatitis
    • Liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis)
    • Gallstone disease

High CA 242 Levels:

  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Colon cancer
  • Rectal cancer

Clinical Significance

  • Higher CA 242 levels indicate more advanced cancer stages.
  • Tracking CA 242 levels over time helps assess treatment effectiveness and detect cancer recurrence.