CPT® Code 86305

Human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) is a specific type of glycoprotein that plays a significant role in the diagnosis and monitoring of certain types of ovarian cancer. This protein is particularly noted for its elevated levels in patients diagnosed with serous and endometrioid ovarian cancers, as well as some cases of clear cell ovarian cancers. The measurement of HE4 levels is crucial for screening purposes, especially in patients who exhibit symptoms that may suggest the presence of ovarian cancer or those who have a family history of the disease. The presence of elevated HE4 levels in the blood is recognized as a serologic marker, which aids healthcare professionals in identifying individuals at risk for ovarian cancer. To obtain these levels, a blood sample is collected from the patient, and analyte-specific reagents are employed to accurately detect and quantify the elevated levels of HE4 in the blood serum, providing valuable information for clinical decision-making.