Cyfra 21 (Lung Cancer Marker) in Reay-road-west, Mumbai

Cyfra 21 (Lung Cancer Marker): Price, Purpose, Range & Reports

Test Overview

The Cyfra 21-1 (Cytokeratin Fragment 21-1) test is a blood test used to measure the concentration of a specific protein fragment (a biomarker) associated with lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This marker is not used for primary screening but rather for monitoring disease progression, evaluating the effectiveness of treatment, and detecting recurrence in patients already diagnosed with lung cancer.

Also known as Cytokeratin Fragment 21-1 or the Lung Cancer Marker Test, Cyfra 21-1 is a key tool in oncology management. Its use helps doctors make informed decisions about treatment changes and follow-up care. If you are searching for a reliable Cyfra 21 Test price or a convenient test near me, Apollo 24|7 provides accredited laboratory services with timely collection and secure, fast report access.

What is the Cyfra 21-1 Test?

Cyfra 21-1 is a small soluble fragment of cytokeratin 19, a protein found in the epithelial cells that line the organs, including the lungs. When certain types of cancer cells (like squamous cell carcinoma of the lung) break down, they release these fragments into the bloodstream, making Cyfra 21-1 an important tumour marker.

This test measures the level of Cyfra 21-1 in a blood sample.

The main clinical uses of the test are:

• Monitoring Treatment Response: Levels are expected to decrease significantly if cancer treatment (like chemotherapy or radiation) is successful.
• Detecting Recurrence: A sudden or sustained rise in levels after successful treatment suggests the cancer may have returned.
• Prognosis Assessment: Higher pre-treatment levels can sometimes be associated with a less favourable prognosis.

It is important to remember that Cyfra 21-1 is a tumour marker, not a diagnostic tool for initial screening. Elevated levels can also be seen in non-cancerous conditions, meaning results must always be interpreted by an oncologist alongside imaging scans and biopsy results.

What is the Cyfra 21-1 Test Price?

The Cyfra 21-1 Test price reflects the specialised immunoassay technology (often an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay or ELISA) required for the precise and quantitative measurement of this cancer marker in the blood. The final cost of your test is influenced by several elements:

• Technology Used: The cost incorporates the reagents and sophisticated laboratory equipment necessary for high-sensitivity biomarker analysis.
• Location: Prices may differ slightly between cities due to regional operating costs and logistics.
• Service Type: Whether the blood collection is performed at a clinic, hospital, or as a home collection service will affect the price.
• Lab Accreditation: Tests conducted at NABL-accredited labs, such as those operated by Apollo, ensure high standards of accuracy, quality control, and reliability essential for oncology testing.

If you're trying to find the most accurate and affordable Cyfra 21-1 Test (Cytokeratin Fragment 21-1) price near me, the easiest way is to check the Apollo 24|7 website or app. They update prices regularly based on your location, so you’ll always see the latest rates and any available offers.

What is the Purpose of the Cyfra 21-1 Test?

The primary purpose of the Cyfra 21-1 Test is not to diagnose lung cancer, but to aid in the post-diagnosis management of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Oncologists recommend the Cyfra 21-1 Test for the following key objectives:

• Disease Monitoring: To track how a patient's known lung cancer (especially squamous cell carcinoma) is responding to chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation.
• Recurrence Detection: To provide an early warning sign of cancer relapse after surgery or initial successful treatment, often preceding clinical or radiological signs.
• Prognostic Indicator: To help assess the likely course and outcome of the disease at the time of diagnosis.
• Treatment Guidance: To support clinical decisions on whether to continue, change, or stop a specific cancer therapy.

Who Should Get a Cyfra 21-1 Test Done?

The Cyfra 21-1 test is a blood test that helps doctors monitor certain types of lung cancer. It is usually recommended by cancer specialists and is used to support treatment and follow-up care. This test is not meant for diagnosing cancer but for tracking its progress and response to treatment.
Your doctor may recommend this test if:

• You have been diagnosed with lung cancer: Especially if you have Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), which is a common type of lung cancer. This test is particularly useful for the squamous cell subtype.
   
• You are currently receiving cancer treatment: The test helps check how well treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy are working.
   
• You have completed treatment and are in follow-up care: It may be used during routine check-ups to look for early signs that the cancer might be returning.
   
• Your imaging results are unclear: If scans like a CT scan (Computed Tomography) or PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography) show uncertain findings, this test can provide additional information to help guide your care.

Cyfra 21-1 is one of several tools your doctor may use to monitor your condition and make informed decisions about your treatment plan. It helps track changes over time and supports personalised care based on your needs.

Components of the Cyfra 21-1 Test

The test focuses on the specific molecular fragment that acts as the marker.

The test is performed for:

• Cyfra 21-1 (Cytokeratin Fragment 21-1): The concentration of this soluble fragment of cytokeratin 19 in the blood serum.

Understanding a Cyfra 21-1 Test Report

The Cyfra 21-1 test result is reported as a quantitative value, typically in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL).

The Reference Range (or normal range) for healthy individuals is usually < 3.3 ng/mL (or a similar value, which may vary slightly by laboratory method).

• A Result within the Reference Range (e.g., < 3.3 ng/mL) generally indicates that the patient is responding well to treatment, is in remission, or is unlikely to have an elevation caused by malignant breakdown.
   
• An Elevated Result (e.g., > 3.3 ng/mL) means there is a higher-than-normal concentration of the marker. In a patient with lung cancer, this suggests higher tumour activity, poor response to therapy, or disease recurrence.

Important Note: While crucial for lung cancer monitoring, Cyfra 21-1 is not specific to cancer. Elevated levels can also be caused by benign conditions such as chronic liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney failure, severe pneumonia, or non-malignant pulmonary diseases like tuberculosis. Therefore, results must be interpreted by a specialist in the context of the patient's full medical history, physical examination, and complementary diagnostic tests like biopsies and imaging.

Preparation and Procedure for Cyfra 21-1 Test

The procedure is straightforward and involves a standard blood draw.

1. How is the Test Done?

The test requires a simple venous blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm by a trained phlebotomist. The blood is collected into a specific blood tube, processed to separate the serum, and then analysed in the laboratory using automated immunoassay techniques to measure the concentration of the Cyfra 21-1 biomarker.

2. Is Fasting Required for This Test?

No, fasting is not required for the Cyfra 21-1 Test. Food and drink do not interfere with the measurement of this tumour marker.

3. What Time of the Day Should I Undergo the Test?

You can undergo this test at any time of the day. Consistency is often key for serial monitoring; therefore, your doctor may recommend taking the test around the same time of day for all follow-up tests.

4. How Frequently Should I Undergo the Test?

The frequency is determined by the patient's clinical situation and treatment plan, as directed by the oncologist. For patients in remission, it is typically performed periodically (e.g., every 3-6 months) as a surveillance tool.

Booking Cyfra 21-1 Test Online & Checking Reports

Apollo 24|7 simplifies the process of obtaining this critical diagnostic test, allowing you to schedule your collection and access your results securely online, ensuring timely communication with your doctor or the requesting agency.

A. What are the Steps to Schedule the Test on Apollo 24|7?

1. Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile application and search for the Cyfra 21 (Lung Cancer Marker).
2. Confirm the latest Cyfra 21 Test price for your city and click the 'Book Now' button.
3. Select your preferred date and a convenient time slot for home collection.
4. Complete the secure online payment. Confirmation details and preparation reminders will be sent instantly.

B. How Do I Access My Test Results Online on Apollo 24|7?

1. Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account using your registered phone number or email.
2. Navigate to the 'Health Records' or 'My Reports' section on the dashboard.
3. Click on your completed test name to view the detailed report immediately.
4. You can easily view the entire report online or download it in PDF format to share with your physician.

Conclusion

The Cyfra 21-1 test serves as a valuable tumour marker, especially in the continuous management and surveillance of non-small cell lung cancer. Its primary strength lies in its ability to non-invasively monitor treatment effectiveness and signal potential disease recurrence, thereby allowing oncologists to make timely adjustments to patient care. However, because its levels can be influenced by several benign conditions, accurate interpretation is absolutely essential and must be conducted by a specialist, always integrating the test results with the broader clinical and radiological picture. Relying on an accredited lab like Apollo 24|7 ensures the necessary quantitative accuracy for this critical test.