Does an M2-PK level of 150 mean that I have cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My M2-PK is 150. Does it mean that I have cancer?

There was no pain, just a regular checkup.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

No, it does not imply cancer alone. Many healthy people, as well as patients with other non-cancerous diseases like rheumatic diseases, diabetic nephropathy, chronic heart diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, and sepsis, may have elevated levels. So there is a high false positivity rate as well.

But, since it is elevated and you are also asymptomatic for other diseases, I mentioned that it is better to undergo an evaluation to rule out cancer.

Also, the blood test is not a very good test for screening of colorectal cancer (attachment removed to protect patient identity), and it is not recommended due to a high false positivity rate; the fecal test M2-PK is a better option.

So, I think you should have a fecal test as well. If positive, then we will get a colonoscopy done; otherwise, you should undergo screening CECT (contrast-enhanced computed tomography) of the chest and abdomen to look for any cancerous change.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The M2-PK level in blood is not a standardized test, and it can be positive in healthy patients as well as in a number of cancerous and noncancerous diseases. So it is a nonspecific test, and positive tests lead to unnecessary evaluation and stress. But since it is positive, we cannot neglect it.

M2-PK positive in the stool is a bit standardized and studied. If it is positive, then it strongly raises the possibility of colorectal cancer, and in that case, one will need a colonoscopy to rule out or rule in cancer. So get a stool test done. And at present, do not be scared.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.