Yes, a blood test can detect pancreatic cancer. Many pancreatic cancer patients have elevated levels of certain blood markers, such as CA 19-9 and CEA, which can be detected during a blood test. Additionally, some research suggests that a blood test may be able to detect a mutation in the KRAS gene associated with pancreatic cancer.
It is important to note, however, that blood tests alone cannot accurately diagnose pancreatic cancer. In order to make a definitive diagnosis, imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan, and/or a biopsy, must also be performed. Blood tests can help to indicate the presence of pancreatic cancer, but other tests are necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Furthermore, elevated levels of certain markers can also occur in diseases other than pancreatic cancer, and a negative result does not necessarily rule out the presence of the disease. For this reason, it is important to discuss your results with your doctor and consider other tests to make an accurate diagnosis.