Examinations
Examinations
CA 15-3 is a tumor marker primarily used in the diagnosis and management of breast cancer.
The trend in CA 15-3 levels over time is more significant than individual test results. A gradual increase in CA 15-3 often indicates metastasis.
In cases of metastases and recurrence, CA 15-3 levels can rise 6–9 months before clinical symptoms appear.
- Sample: Blood drawn from a vein.
- Fasting for at least 4 hours before the test is required.
- Monitoring disease progression
- Early detection of recurrence
- Evaluating treatment effectiveness
- Differentiating breast cancer from benign breast conditions (e.g., fibrocystic mastopathy)
Causes of Increased CA 15-3 Levels
Oncological Conditions (Cancer-Related CA 15-3 Elevation):
- Breast carcinoma
- Bronchogenic carcinoma (lung cancer)
- Stomach cancer
- Liver cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Ovarian and uterine cancer
Non-Cancerous Conditions (Benign CA 15-3 Elevation):
- Autoimmune diseases
- Physiological increase in the third trimester of pregnancy (up to 50 U/mL is considered normal)