Understanding HE4 Levels: Normal Ranges and Their Significance
Learn about HE4 reference ranges, their significance, and when to consult a doctor.
Check your result
Calculated in your browser - the number is not sent anywhere.
is below the typical adult range (0–70 pmol/L).
is within the typical adult range (0–70 pmol/L).
is above the typical adult range (0–70 pmol/L).
This number is very far from the usual range - check which unit your report uses.
A value this far outside the range is worth discussing with your doctor today.
What a low result usually means
What a high result usually means
The range printed on your own report comes first - it differs between laboratories. This is not a diagnosis.
See it next to the rest of your report - upload it for a free, private explanationFree. Sign up with your email - no password, we send you a code.Human Epididymis Protein 4 (HE4) is a protein that can be measured in the blood. It is often used in combination with another marker, CA-125, to assess the risk of ovarian cancer in women who have an ovarian mass. Understanding the reference range for HE4 can help you and your healthcare provider determine the next steps in your care.
What is HE4?
HE4, or Human Epididymis Protein 4, is a protein found in the blood. It is often used as a tumor marker, which means it can help indicate the presence of certain types of cancer, particularly ovarian cancer. However, HE4 is not used as a stand-alone screening tool. Instead, it is used alongside CA-125 to calculate the Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA) score, which helps evaluate the likelihood that an ovarian mass is cancerous.
Understanding HE4 Reference Ranges
The reference range for HE4 is not a single set of numbers for all adults. Instead, it varies based on several factors, including menopausal status. In many laboratories, HE4 is considered normal below about 70 pmol/L before menopause and below about 140 pmol/L after menopause. This range can vary slightly depending on menopausal status. It's important to note that these values are not used alone to diagnose cancer but are part of a broader assessment that includes other tests and clinical evaluations.
Why HE4 Levels Matter
HE4 levels can provide valuable information when assessing the risk of ovarian cancer. Elevated levels of HE4, in combination with CA-125, may suggest a higher risk of ovarian malignancy. However, elevated HE4 levels can also occur in other conditions and are not solely indicative of cancer. Therefore, interpreting HE4 levels should always be done by a healthcare professional who can consider the complete clinical picture.
Factors Affecting HE4 Levels
Several factors can influence HE4 levels in the blood. These include:
- Menopausal Status: Postmenopausal women may have different HE4 levels compared to premenopausal women.
- Age: Age can also play a role in determining what is considered a normal HE4 level.
- Assay Variability: Different laboratories may use different assays, which can result in slightly varied reference ranges.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal HE4 level? Normal HE4 levels are typically below about 70 pmol/L before menopause and below about 140 pmol/L after menopause, depending on the laboratory.
Can HE4 be used as a stand-alone test for ovarian cancer? No, HE4 is not used as a stand-alone test. It is used alongside CA-125 to calculate the ROMA score for assessing ovarian cancer risk.
Do high HE4 levels always indicate cancer? Not necessarily. High HE4 levels can occur due to other conditions, so they should be interpreted in the context of other diagnostic information.
How is the HE4 test performed? The HE4 test is a blood test where a sample is taken from a vein in your arm.
Are there any preparations needed for an HE4 test? Typically, no special preparations are needed for an HE4 blood test.
When to see a doctor
If you have concerns about your HE4 levels or have been told that your levels are elevated, it is important to discuss these results with your healthcare provider. They can help interpret the results in the context of your overall health and any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have an ovarian mass, your doctor may use HE4 levels, along with other tests, to assess your risk of ovarian cancer.
Always consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice tailored to your individual circumstances.