Blood Drug Testing

Is there a blood test for thyroid cancer?

I had thyroid cancer...had my thyroid removed and did RAI treatment... then did my scan and I was clean! However, right after I lost my insurance and have not had another scan! I wonder everyday if I still have it or not. Is there a blood test they can do to tell if I have it again?? Thanks.

Public Comments

1. Cancer is never diagnosed by a blood test, but you should go back to your doctor as she or he has your records and would know what your postop TSH levels were and run them again.
2. Yes, there is. Since you had Radioactive iodine, your Thyroglobulin (Tg) and the antibodies should be undetectable since your scan was clean. Your thyroid cells are the only cells that make a the Thyroglobulin protein, so it is a very useful way to determine if someone is having a recurrence. Ideally, you should get it done at the same lab if you've had it before due to lab variations and you should also have a stimulated (being hypothyroid via Thyrogen injections or going off meds) since that way is more accurate. You can get the test done without insurance, you just have to pay the couple hundred for the test. Good luck to you!!! http://www.thyca.org/thyroglobulin.htm