HE4 (human epididymis protein 4) test
Quick answer: An HE4 test measures human epididymis protein 4, a protein that can be raised in some ovarian cancers. It is used with CA-125 to help assess an ovarian mass, and to monitor ovarian cancer; it is not a screening test for healthy women.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careUnlike CA-125, HE4 is usually not raised by endometriosis, which can help when a woman has an ovarian cyst.
How the test is done
- 1Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm
- 2No fasting is usually needed
- 3The lab measures HE4, often together with CA-125
- 4The results may be combined into a ROMA score
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Levels rise with age, smoking and kidney problems, so your doctor will read them with scans and other tests.
If the result is outside the usual range
A raised HE4 can be seen with some ovarian cancers, but also with kidney problems, smoking and older age. A normal level does not rule out cancer.
Who usually has this test
Women with an ovarian mass or cyst found on a scan, to help plan care; it is not a screening test for healthy women.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising is possible; your doctor will usually discuss the result with your scan findings.
Names and options
Also called: HE4, ovarian tumour marker
Listed by the hospital as
- HE4 (Human Epididymis Protein 4), SERUM
Questions about this test
Is HE4 raised in endometriosis?
HE4 is usually less affected by endometriosis than CA-125, which often rises with it. This is one reason the two are sometimes read together.
Can kidney problems raise HE4?
Yes, reduced kidney function can raise HE4. Your doctor will consider this when reading the result.
Should healthy women have HE4 tests for screening?
No. HE4 is used to help assess a known ovarian mass, not to screen women without symptoms.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.