Understanding Lab Tests for Malignancies
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Malignancies, or cancers, are complex diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth that can spread throughout the body. While there is no single blood test that can definitively diagnose all types of cancer, blood testing plays a fundamental role in monitoring treatment effects, assessing complications, and evaluating the body's response to cancer and its therapies.
Top Recommended Test
Soluble Transferrin Receptor
This test measures iron metabolism markers that may be elevated in certain blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma. These malignancies can show increased levels of soluble transferrin receptor due to the cancer cells' high iron demand for rapid cell division, making this test useful for monitoring disease activity.
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The Role of Blood Tests in Cancer Care
Blood tests are essential components of comprehensive cancer care. They help healthcare providers monitor medication levels in patients receiving treatment, detect potential complications from therapy, and assess how the disease may be affecting the body's systems. These tests provide valuable insights that guide treatment decisions and help ensure patient safety.
Other Relevant Tests
Sirolimus, LC/MS/MS
This test measures sirolimus levels in patients receiving this immunosuppressive medication. Monitoring is crucial because excessive immunosuppression from high sirolimus levels can increase the risk of certain cancers, particularly skin cancer and lymphoma, since the immune system plays a vital role in identifying and destroying cancer cells.
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Understanding Test Results
Interpreting blood test results in the context of cancer requires specialized medical expertise. Abnormal values may indicate treatment effects, disease progression, or complications, and should always be evaluated by qualified healthcare professionals who can consider the complete clinical picture.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Cancer diagnosis and treatment require comprehensive medical evaluation by qualified oncology specialists. Always consult with your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring.
