Carbohydrate antigen, СА 15-3

Ca 15-3

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Ca 15-3 is a protein that is produced by certain types of cancer cells, particularly breast cancer cells. It is a type of tumor marker, which means that its levels can be measured in the blood to help detect and monitor certain types of cancer.

Structure and Function of Ca 15-3

Ca 15-3 is a mucin-like glycoprotein that is present on the surface of cancer cells. It is a product of the MUC1 gene, which plays a role in cell signaling and adhesion. In healthy individuals, the MUC1 gene is expressed at low levels, but in certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer, it can be overexpressed, leading to increased production of Ca 15-3.

The main function of Ca 15-3 is not fully understood, but it is believed to play a role in tumor progression and metastasis. However, its presence in the blood can be used as a marker to help detect and monitor breast cancer.

While elevated levels of Ca 15-3 can indicate the presence of breast cancer, it is important to note that other factors, such as benign breast conditions or other types of cancer, can also cause an increase in Ca 15-3 levels. Therefore, Ca 15-3 testing should be interpreted in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and clinical findings.

Role of CA 15-3

CA 15-3 is a tumor marker that is commonly used in the diagnosis and monitoring of breast cancer. It is a protein that is present in small amounts in the blood of healthy individuals, but its levels can be elevated in certain types of cancer, particularly breast cancer.

Indications for CA 15-3 Test

The CA 15-3 test is typically ordered for the following reasons:

• Breast cancer screening: While the CA 15-3 test is not recommended for routine breast cancer screening in the general population, it can be useful in monitoring women who have already been diagnosed with breast cancer.
• Monitoring treatment response: The CA 15-3 test can help evaluate the effectiveness of breast cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. A decrease in CA 15-3 levels may indicate that the treatment is working, while an increase may suggest that the cancer is progressing or recurring.
• Detecting recurrence: For women who have been treated for breast cancer, the CA 15-3 test can be used to detect a possible recurrence of the disease, even before any symptoms appear.

Preparation for the Procedure

Before undergoing the CA 15-3 test, it is essential to follow certain preparatory steps to ensure accurate results:

• Fasting may or may not be required, depending on the specific guidelines provided by your healthcare provider or laboratory.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity for 24 hours before the test, as it can temporarily affect the CA 15-3 levels.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as some substances can potentially influence the test results.

The Procedure

The CA 15-3 test is a simple blood draw procedure performed by a healthcare professional. A small amount of blood is collected from a vein, typically in the arm. The process is generally quick and minimally invasive.

CA 15-3 Analysis

CA 15-3 is a blood test used to monitor the progression of breast cancer and its response to treatment. It measures the level of a protein called cancer antigen 15-3, which is often elevated in the blood of patients with breast cancer.

The CA 15-3 test is typically performed as part of a series of tests to evaluate breast cancer, but it is not used for initial diagnosis. It is often used in combination with other diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies and physical examinations, to assess the effectiveness of treatment and detect any recurrence of the disease.

CA 15-3 levels can be useful in monitoring the course of the disease and evaluating the response to therapy. However, it is important to note that elevated CA 15-3 levels can also occur in certain non-cancerous conditions, such as benign breast diseases or ovarian cancer.

Sources:

https://cancer.ca/en/treatments/tests-and-procedures/cancer-antigen-15-3-ca-15-3
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=ca_15_3
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7137849/
https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/81607

IMPORTANT!

It is very important to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any symptoms or a flare-up of an illness, it is essential to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Only a qualified healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of treatment. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have the tests performed at the same laboratory, as different laboratories may use different methods and units of measurement for similar tests.