Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin (DCP/PIVKA-II) Serum Test
Comprehensive Liver Cancer Detection and Monitoring
The Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin (DCP/PIVKA-II) Serum Test represents a significant advancement in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) diagnostics. This specialized biomarker test detects abnormal forms of prothrombin that occur when vitamin K metabolism is disrupted in liver cancer cells. As one of the most reliable markers for primary liver cancer detection, the DCP/PIVKA-II test plays a crucial role in early diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of treatment response.
What Does the DCP/PIVKA-II Test Measure?
This innovative test specifically measures des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin, an abnormal form of prothrombin that lacks gamma-carboxylation due to vitamin K deficiency in malignant liver cells. The test detects:
- Abnormal prothrombin proteins produced by hepatocellular carcinoma cells
- Vitamin K metabolism dysfunction in liver tissue
- Early biochemical changes associated with liver cancer development
- Treatment response markers during cancer therapy
Who Should Consider This Test?
The DCP/PIVKA-II Serum Test is particularly important for individuals experiencing:
- Chronic liver disease or cirrhosis of any cause
- History of hepatitis B or C infection
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
- Abdominal pain or discomfort in the right upper quadrant
- Elevated liver enzymes without clear explanation
- Family history of liver cancer
- Alcohol-related liver disease
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Clinical Benefits of DCP/PIVKA-II Testing
Choosing the Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin test provides multiple advantages:
- Early Detection – Identifies hepatocellular carcinoma at earlier, more treatable stages
- High Specificity – Fewer false positives compared to other liver cancer markers
- Treatment Monitoring – Tracks response to cancer therapies and detects recurrence
- Risk Stratification – Helps assess individual cancer risk in high-risk populations
- Complementary Testing – Works alongside AFP testing for comprehensive liver cancer screening
Understanding Your Test Results
Your DCP/PIVKA-II test results will be interpreted by our experienced medical team:
- Normal Range – Typically indicates low probability of hepatocellular carcinoma
- Elevated Levels – May suggest presence of liver cancer requiring further investigation
- Significantly Elevated – Strong indicator of hepatocellular carcinoma, necessitating imaging studies
- Serial Monitoring – Changes in levels over time help assess treatment effectiveness
It’s important to discuss your results with your healthcare provider, who will consider them alongside clinical findings, imaging studies, and other laboratory tests.
Test Pricing and Availability
| Test Name | Discount Price | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|
| Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin (DCP/PIVKA-II) Serum Test | $126 USD | $188 USD |
Nationwide Testing Availability
We have convenient testing locations across the United States, including major metropolitan areas such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, San Jose, and many more. Our state-of-the-art facilities ensure consistent, reliable testing with rapid turnaround times.
Take Control of Your Liver Health Today
Early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates. The DCP/PIVKA-II Serum Test provides a powerful tool for monitoring liver health in at-risk individuals. With same-day results available when samples are received by 9 am Monday, you can receive timely information to guide your healthcare decisions.
Ready to schedule your test? Call us today at +1(267) 388-9828 or book your appointment online. Our knowledgeable staff is available to answer your questions and help you take the next step in protecting your liver health.
Sample Requirements: 2 mL (0.5 mL minimum) serum from 1 SST tube. Ship refrigerated or frozen. Please provide brief clinical history for optimal test interpretation.
