Cancer antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3) is a protein made by the cells in stimulus to any alterations happening in the human body. CA 15-3 is a tumour biomarker as high levels of this antigen may indicate a risk of certain cancers. Generally, CA 15-3 tests are not used to diagnose cancer but to find out how cancer is responding to treatment. Further, this marker test helps healthcare providers to determine whether a cancer is stable, growing, shrinking, or has relapsed.

The CA 15-3 tumour marker test is a valuable tool in the ongoing management of breast cancer. It aids in monitoring disease progression and assessing treatment efficacy. Individuals undergoing this test should discuss the results with their healthcare provider to gain a comprehensive understanding of their cancer status and make informed decisions about their treatment plan.

What Is It?

CA 15-3 is a protein that is often elevated in the blood of individuals with breast cancer. The CA 15-3 tumour marker test measures the levels of this protein, serving as a tool for monitoring the progression of breast cancer and assessing the effectiveness of treatment.

Also Read: CA19-9 Tumour Biomarker Test: What Is It? Purpose, Procedure, and Results

Who Needs The CA 15-3 Test?

The CA 15-3 test is typically recommended for individuals who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with advanced stages of the disease. It is not used as a screening tool for the general population or as a standalone diagnostic test. Instead, it is part of a comprehensive approach to cancer management, alongside other diagnostic tests, and imaging studies.

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Purpose Of The CA 15-3 Test: 

Monitoring Breast Cancer

The primary purpose of the CA 15-3 test is to monitor the progression of breast cancer. Elevated levels of CA 15-3 may indicate the presence of cancer cells and can be used to track changes in the disease over time.

Assessing Treatment Response

The test is valuable in assessing how well a patient is responding to treatment. A decreasing level of CA 15-3 may suggest that the treatment is effective, while an increase may indicate a need for adjustments in the treatment plan.

Also Read: Immunoglobulins Blood Test: Purpose, Function, And Results

Procedure For The CA 15-3 Test:

A small sample of blood is drawn from a vein in the arm by the phlebotomist. The blood sample is analysed for the presence of CA 15-3.

Results:

The normal range of CA 15-3 biomarkers is 30 U/ml or less for healthy adults. Additional tests are suggested if CA15-3 levels are elevated. As per the National Institute of Health, CA 15-3 levels are high in more than 76 % of metastatic breast cancer patients.

In addition to breast cancer, lung cancer and ovarian cancer are also associated with elevated CA 15-3 levels. Also, remember that the presence of CA 15-3 does not mean that the patient has breast cancer or cancer has relapsed. Any benign conditions of the breast, ovary; liver; lung and digestive tract may also result in increased CA15-3 levels.

To make a precise diagnosis, healthcare providers determine CA 15-3 test results in conjunction with other blood works, examinations, and diagnostic imaging tests.

Patients with metastatic breast cancer may have several CA15-3 marker tests done during the treatment schedule. As the antigen levels change in response to disease progression or regression in a person with breast cancer. Increasing CA15-3 levels may indicate that cancer has grown or recurred, while decreasing levels may suggest that the tumour is shrinking or getting smaller.

Potential Side Effects:

The CA 15-3 test is a relatively simple and safe procedure. However, as with any blood drawing procedure, there may be minimal side effects, including, a few people may experience mild pain or bruising at the site where the blood was drawn. In rare cases, individuals may feel lightheaded or faint during or after the blood is drawn.