Quick Facts
- Sample: 3.5 mL blood plasma
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 9-12 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
Benefits
- Non-invasive screening - simple blood draw, no bowel prep or sedation required
- High accuracy - 87–90% sensitivity and 88% specificity for colorectal cancer detection (PMC 2011)
- Convenient access - order online or walk-in, no fasting needed
- Alternative option - ideal if you decline or cannot tolerate colonoscopy
- Early detection - helps identify colorectal cancer when treatment is most effective
Who Is This Test For?
- Adults over 50 at average risk for colorectal cancer
- Individuals who refuse or delay colonoscopy screening
- People with family history of colorectal or ovarian cancer
- Those with previous colorectal polyps or inflammatory bowel disease
- Adults seeking a less invasive screening alternative
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order your test – purchase online or visit a walk-in lab location
- Provide a blood sample - quick, non-fasting blood draw at the lab
- Receive your results - findings delivered in 1–3 business days.
FAQ
What does this test detect? It identifies methylated SEPT9 DNA in blood, a biomarker associated with colorectal cancer (JAMA 2016).
Is this test as accurate as colonoscopy? No test replaces colonoscopy as the gold standard, but mSEPT9 offers 87–90% sensitivity for cancer detection (PMC 2011).
Do I need to fast before testing? No fasting is required for the Methylated Septin 9 blood test.
What happens if my result is positive? A positive result requires follow-up colonoscopy for confirmation and diagnosis (ACS 2024).
Can this test detect precancerous polyps? It detects approximately 12% of precancerous adenomas; colonoscopy remains better for polyp detection (PMC 2011).
How often should I repeat this test? Frequency depends on your results and risk factors; consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
The Methylated Septin 9 blood test screens for colorectal cancer by detecting methylated SEPT9 DNA released from tumor cells into the bloodstream. This non-invasive approach provides an alternative screening method for adults who decline or cannot undergo colonoscopy. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer globally and a leading cause of cancer deaths, making early detection critical (ACS 2024). The test uses highly sensitive PCR-based amplification to identify this biomarker in plasma samples, helping healthcare providers assess colorectal cancer risk.
Who would benefit from this test?
You may benefit from this test if you're over 50 and at average risk for colorectal cancer but prefer a blood-based screening option (AACC 2022). This test is particularly valuable if you've declined colonoscopy or face barriers to conventional screening. You should also consider this test if you have increased risk factors, including family history of colorectal or ovarian cancer, previous colorectal polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, a high-fat diet, or tobacco use. If you experience symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, bloody or narrow stools, excess gas, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or nausea, discuss screening options with your healthcare provider.
When should I order the Methylated Septin 9 Test?
Order this test as an alternative colorectal cancer screening method if you're unwilling or unable to undergo standard screening procedures (NCI 2023). The American Cancer Society recommends colorectal cancer screening beginning at age 45, while the National Cancer Institute suggests starting at age 50 for average-risk adults. You may order earlier if you have elevated risk factors or family history. This test provides a convenient option for initiating or maintaining regular screening schedules when colonoscopy isn't feasible or preferred.
How do I interpret the results?
Your results will indicate whether methylated SEPT9 DNA was detected in your blood sample. Understanding what your results mean helps you make informed decisions about follow-up care.
Result: Positive (Detected)
- What it means: Methylated SEPT9 present; suggests probable colorectal cancer
- Typical action: Requires diagnostic colonoscopy for confirmation (Mayo Clinic 2024)
Result: Negative (Not Detected)
- What it means: No methylated SEPT9 detected; reduces but doesn't eliminate risk
- Typical action: Continue regular screening per physician recommendations
A positive result is not a definitive cancer diagnosis but indicates the need for further evaluation through colonoscopy.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required before your blood draw. Follow standard instructions for blood collection, including staying hydrated. Avoid factors that may interfere with DNA stability, though your lab will provide specific guidance. The test requires 3.5 mL of blood plasma collected in EDTA tubes. Your sample will be processed and analyzed promptly to preserve DNA integrity and ensure accurate results.
How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your individual risk profile, previous results, and your healthcare provider's recommendations.
Negative result, average risk
- Suggested interval: Annually or per physician guidance
Positive result
- Suggested interval: Proceed to colonoscopy; future screening per gastroenterologist
High-risk factors or family history
- Suggested interval: More frequent testing as recommended by your provider
Why early detection matters
Colorectal cancer develops when polyps form in the colon or rectum lining, and early screening can detect cancer when treatment is most effective. Non-invasive testing options like the Methylated Septin 9 test increase screening compliance, potentially reducing colorectal cancer mortality (JAMA 2016). Screening can sometimes prevent cancer from developing by enabling healthcare providers to detect and remove abnormal growths before they become cancerous. With approximately 87% sensitivity for early-stage colorectal cancer, this test supports timely intervention and improved prognosis (PMC 2011).
Related tests you may consider
Occult Blood, Fecal, Immunoassay Test - Detects blood hidden in a stool sample to help screen for colorectal cancer.
Beta-glucuronidase, Stool-Doctor's Data Test Kit - gold-standard diagnostic and screening procedure with polyp removal capability
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Blood Test - Measures CEA levels, which can be elevated in certain cancers and some non-cancerous conditions, helping doctors monitor cancer treatment, check for recurrence, and assess potential health concerns.
