CA 15-3 Blood Work Lab Test

CA 15-3 is a blood test that measures the level of a protein called cancer antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3) in your blood. Here are some reasons why you might consider getting a CA 15-3 test:

Monitor breast cancer: CA 15-3 is a tumor marker that is often elevated in women with breast cancer. A CA 15-3 test can be used to monitor breast cancer, track the effectiveness of treatment, and detect recurrence.

Diagnose other medical conditions: Elevated CA 15-3 levels can also be a sign of other medical conditions, such as liver disease, lung disease, or certain types of cancer, including ovarian and pancreatic cancer. A CA 15-3 test may be used to help diagnose or monitor these conditions.

Screen for breast cancer: While a CA 15-3 test is not recommended as a routine screening test for breast cancer, it may be used in certain situations, such as in women with a high risk of developing breast cancer or in those who have a breast lump.

Overall, a CA 15-3 test can provide important information about your risk of breast cancer, help diagnose or monitor certain medical conditions, and track the effectiveness of treatment. However, it’s important to remember that an elevated CA 15-3 level does not always mean that you have cancer, and a normal level does not necessarily rule out the presence of cancer. A CA 15-3 test should always be interpreted in the context of other medical information and testing.