What is this test?
SCC antigen is a protein marker that can be used for follow-up in certain squamous cell tumors, for example of the cervix, head and neck or lung.
Why might it be ordered?
- To monitor treatment response or change in an established squamous cell cancer.
- As complementary information to examination and imaging studies.
What sample is needed?
A healthcare professional collects a venous blood sample. Depending on the method, the laboratory uses serum or plasma.
How should you prepare?
Tell the laboratory about all medicines, hormone treatments, vitamins and supplements you take. Do not stop or change treatment unless your clinician tells you to. Follow any instructions about fasting and the time of collection.
How should you understand the result?
There may be an increase in benign skin and lung diseases or reduced kidney function. A trend across consecutive measurements made with a comparable method is often more informative than a single value.
Sources and editorial status
This patient-facing text is an editorial draft. It should be approved by a laboratory physician before official publication.