If you have symptoms of cancer, your doctor will probably arrange some blood tests. You may also have blood tests during and after cancer treatment.
Full blood count
A full blood count checks the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.
Liver and kidney function
Blood tests can also show how well the kidneys and liver are working. Urine may also be tested to look for any abnormal cells or bleeding that may be coming from the bladder or kidneys.
Tumour markers
In some cases, blood, urine or tissue samples may be tested for tumour markers. These are proteins made by some cancer cells. High levels of tumour markers may suggest cancer. However, other conditions can also raise the levels of tumour markers, and some people with cancer have normal levels.
Tumour marker levels can’t be used on their own to diagnose the primary cancer, but they may suggest certain types of cancer for your doctors to look for.
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