Epithelial Cell Antibody (Anti-EpCAM) Rapid Qualitative Immunoassay (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies against Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule (EpCAM), a protein found on certain cancer cells, including those from breast, colon, or other epithelial-origin tumors. It may be used to screen for or monitor certain cancers.
This test helps identify antibodies linked to specific types of cancer, aiding in early detection or treatment planning.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72206-6
- Short code
- EBV NA 1 IgG+IgM SerPl IA.rapid-ColRto
- Synonyms
- EBV NA 1 IgG+IgM SerPl IA.rapid-ColRto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia-rapid
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms or a history suggestive of epithelial-origin cancers, such as breast, colon, or ovarian cancer. It could also be used in follow-up testing to check for recurrence or response to treatment.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (serum or plasma) during a routine clinic or lab visit. Avoid fasting unless instructed, as it may affect other tests taken simultaneously.
What the Test Measures
This test measures the presence of antibodies against EpCAM, a protein often expressed on cancer cells. A positive result suggests potential exposure to these cells, warranting further evaluation.
What the Results Mean
A positive result indicates the presence of anti-EpCAM antibodies, which may correlate with certain cancers or immune responses. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this sample. Results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated antibody levels may signal an ongoing immune response to cancer cells, potentially guiding further diagnostic testing or treatment strategies. This test is not a definitive cancer diagnosis but may complement other tests like imaging or biopsies. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized insights.
Short name
EpCAM Antibody Test (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How accurate is this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy