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Early cancer detection blood scan for comprehensive screening of head and neck cancer markers

Blood Test for Head and Neck Cancer Screening

Head and Neck Cancer Blood Scan

  • Detect early signs of head and neck cancer
  • Pinpoint specific cancer markers for targeted treatment
  • Reveal hidden health issues affecting your wellbeing
First results as soon as overnight*

90 day happiness guarantee

We stand behind our service

Prescription & fees included

Go directly to the lab, no extra fees

Easy to understand results

With friendly doctor's notes & guidance

Fast & convenient

Lab visit as quick as 10 mins in & out

90 day happiness guarantee

We stand behind our service

Prescription & fees included

Go directly to the lab, no extra fees

Easy to understand results

With friendly doctor's notes & guidance

Fast & convenient

Lab visit as quick as 10 mins in & out

What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're concerned about head and neck cancer risk, have a family history of cancer, or are experiencing persistent symptoms like difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or unusual lumps in the neck area. It helps identify cancer markers and other health issues that may indicate early signs of head and neck cancer. Many people use this test for preventive screening or when they want comprehensive health insights beyond routine checkups.

How should I prepare for this test?

Fasting: 12 hours

You should fast for 12 hours before your blood draw, meaning no food or beverages except water during this time. If you're taking high-dose biotin supplements (more than 5 mg per day), wait at least eight hours after your last dose before testing. Results typically arrive within 3 business days, though additional time may be needed if confirmation testing is required.

What's included in this test?

Ferritin Ca 19-9 CEA

This comprehensive panel includes cancer markers CEA and CA 19-9 that can indicate tumor activity, a Complete Blood Count to assess overall health and detect abnormalities, a Comprehensive Metabolic Profile to evaluate kidney and liver function, and Ferritin to measure iron stores which can be affected by cancer. Together, these measurements provide a detailed picture of your health status and help identify potential warning signs that warrant further investigation.

What happens after I get my results?
You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your cancer markers and blood counts mean for your overall health. These notes include personalized recommendations on follow-up testing, lifestyle changes to support immune health, or whether you should consult with an oncologist or specialist. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your biomarker levels over time using our trends feature to monitor any changes.
When will I get my results?
Your results are typically ready within 3 business days after your blood sample is collected. In some cases, if confirmation testing is needed for any markers, the turnaround time may be extended slightly. You'll be notified as soon as your results are available and can access them securely online along with your doctor notes.
Who should consider getting this test?
This test is important for people with a family history of head and neck cancer, those with risk factors like tobacco or alcohol use, and anyone experiencing persistent symptoms such as throat pain, difficulty swallowing, or unusual lumps. It's also valuable for individuals seeking preventive cancer screening or those who want comprehensive health monitoring beyond standard annual checkups.
What symptoms indicate I may need this test?
Consider this test if you have persistent hoarseness or voice changes, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or a lump in your neck that won't go away. Other concerning symptoms include chronic sore throat, ear pain, persistent cough, or mouth sores that don't heal. While these symptoms can have many causes, this test helps rule out or identify cancer-related concerns.
What are CEA and CA 19-9, and why do they matter?
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) and CA 19-9 (Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9) are proteins that can be elevated in the presence of certain cancers, including head and neck cancers. While not definitive for diagnosis on their own, elevated levels can indicate the need for further investigation and are useful for monitoring cancer progression or response to treatment. Normal levels are reassuring, though they don't completely rule out cancer, which is why they're combined with other markers in this panel.
What does high CEA or CA 19-9 mean?
Elevated CEA or CA 19-9 levels may indicate the presence of cancer, but they can also be raised by non-cancerous conditions like inflammation, infection, or smoking. High levels don't automatically mean cancer, but they do warrant follow-up testing such as imaging or biopsy. Your doctor notes will help you understand your specific results and recommend appropriate next steps based on your complete health profile.
How often should I retest for cancer markers?
For general cancer screening without symptoms or risk factors, annual testing may be appropriate as part of preventive care. If you have elevated markers or are at higher risk due to family history or lifestyle factors, your doctor may recommend retesting every 3-6 months to monitor trends. If you're undergoing cancer treatment, more frequent testing helps track treatment effectiveness and detect any recurrence early.
How’s this work?
Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:
  1. In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
  2. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
  3. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
  4. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
  5. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
  6. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
  7. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
  8. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.
How do I know which test to get?
In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.

Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.
Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?
Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.

Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.

There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.

Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.
Do you accept health insurance?
Only HSA & FSA is accepted.

Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.

This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.

If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
Can I cancel my order?
Yes.

We get it – sometimes your needs change.

As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.

If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

You can read more about our cancellation policy here.
How can I find a lab location near me?
During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).

Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.

If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

You get clinical lab reports & simplified health insights.
Save time & gas, go straight to the lab. Our doctors cover the rest.
Results start landing the next day after your lab visit.*
We don’t sell or share your data. Your time & privacy matter.
US-licensed doctors have your back if things get unclear.
No hidden fees, nice discounts for regular checkups.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
Demo results
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) 4.2 ng/mL
Demo results
Low Optimal 0 - 3.0 High
4.2 ng/mL

What this means

Your CEA level is slightly elevated above the normal range. While this doesn't automatically indicate cancer, elevated CEA can be associated with inflammation, smoking, or certain health conditions and warrants follow-up with your healthcare provider. Monitoring this marker over time helps identify trends and determine if additional testing is needed.

* Regular blood test results (e.g., CBC) typically start arriving the next business day after sample collection. More complex tests, such as hormone panels, may take up to 10–15 business days due to their complexity.
Here’s how easy it is to get blood work done on your terms
Choose a checkup
Order your test Save a trip to the doctor. Your results will come with clear, friendly explanations. Takes 2 minutes
Book a lab
Book an appointment Visit any of our 4,000 nearby lab locations to have your samples collected. Book or walk-in
Choose a checkup
Get results Receive a clear, easy-to-digest health report by email & SMS within a few business days. Get answers, fast

Blood Test for Head and Neck Cancer Screening

  • Detect early signs of head and neck cancer
  • Pinpoint specific cancer markers for targeted treatment
  • Reveal hidden health issues affecting your wellbeing
Still got questions? Text our super-cool support team at 754-799-7833 to get help finding your ideal checkup.

Ask Me Anything

Your 24/7 Personal Lab Guide

Quick questions:

What does this test measure?
Do I need to fast for this test?
When will I get my results?
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We provide helpful guidance, not medical diagnoses. For medical decisions, consult a licensed professional.