I went for blood tests today to check tumour markers as i have previous breast cancer history. i ould only get 2 tubes of blood but needed 4. i am also going for a bone scan.opinions?

Might be enough: The requirement for number of tube comes from both the type of tube needed for a particular test as well as the volume of blood needed. The volume part also depends on how concentrated your blood is--less liquid in your blood means you need more tubes. Your doctor will be notified if some of the tests needed could not be done, and then he or she can decide if you need to be drawn again.

No problem: In all likelihood, this should not be an issue. Tumor markers are generally not recommended for patients with a history of breast cancer, primarily because the markers that we have are quite poor. They tend to be most helpful when tumors are advanced and when patients are undergoing chemotherapy. If the tumor markers go down, this is often taken as a sign that the therapy may be working.

Ask your doc: You should ask your treating physician if the extra tubes are necessary. If they are return to the lab once you are fully hydrated.