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    CA 15.3, Breast Cancer Marker2015135033% off
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    What is CA 15.3, Breast Cancer Marker Test?

    The CA 15-3 test measures the level of the cancer antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3), a protein found in the blood. This test is primarily used as a marker to help monitor the treatment progress of individuals with breast cancer. It aids in detecting any recurrence or progression of the disease, but it is not suitable for initial breast cancer diagnosis because of its limited sensitivity and specificity.

    The CA 15-3 test is most valuable for individuals already diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those in advanced stages, to track how their disease is advancing. If you’re managing advanced breast cancer and need ongoing monitoring, you can opt for a CA 15-3 test conveniently at home.

    CA 15.3, Breast Cancer Marker Test Parameters

    The CA 15-3 test measures one specific parameter: the presence of CA 15-3, a protein produced by specific cells, particularly those found in breast cancer. This glycoprotein is secreted into the bloodstream and is commonly used as a tumour marker to track the progression of breast cancer, evaluate treatment efficacy, and detect any recurrence.

    Increased CA 15-3 levels are often seen in patients with metastatic or advanced breast cancer. However, high levels can also be linked to other types of cancer, such as ovarian, lung, or prostate cancers. Non-cancerous conditions, including benign ovarian or breast diseases, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease, can also lead to elevated levels of CA 15-3. Additionally, pregnancy, lactation, and certain liver diseases may contribute to abnormal levels.

    Limitations of the CA 15-3 Test:

    Lack of Specificity

    While CA 15-3 is associated with breast cancer, it is not highly specific. Other cancers and benign health conditions may also cause elevated levels.

    Not for Screening

    This test should not be used for routine breast cancer screening. It is primarily used for monitoring patients already diagnosed with cancer.

    False Negative Results

    CA 15-3 may be normal even in cases where cancer is present, particularly in early-stage or localised cancers.

    CA 15.3, Breast Cancer Marker Test Preparation

    Follow these instructions below before taking the CA 15-3 (Breast Cancer Marker) test:

    • Prerequisites : Fasting is not necessary before undergoing the CA 15-3 (Breast Cancer Marker) test.

    • Best Time to Get Tested : The CA 15-3 (Breast Cancer Marker) test can be performed at any time that suits you, with no specific timing requirements.

    • Who Should Get a CA 15.3 (Breast Cancer Marker) Test : This test is generally recommended for individuals undergoing treatment for advanced or metastatic breast cancer to assess how effective the treatment is. It may also be useful for individuals with a history of breast cancer to detect any possible recurrence.

    • Cautions Before Taking a CA 15.3 (Breast Cancer Marker) Test : Before taking the CA 15-3 test, inform your doctor of any medications or underlying health conditions that may affect the test results. Be aware that non-cancerous conditions, such as pregnancy, lactation, and benign breast conditions, could lead to increased levels of CA 15-3.

    Why Take the CA 15.3, Breast Cancer Marker Test?

    The CA 15.3 test is particularly helpful in treating breast cancer, especially for people with advanced or spreading forms of the disease. Here are some key reasons to take the test:

    • Monitor How Well Breast Cancer Treatment is Working: By regularly measuring CA 15.3 levels during or after breast cancer treatment, doctors can learn how well the treatment is helping and whether changes are needed.

    • Detect Cancer Recurrence: If someone who has previously been treated for breast cancer shows high levels of CA 15.3, it could be a sign that the cancer has returned. Additional tests like scans or biopsies are needed to confirm this.

    • Understand the Prognosis (Outlook) of the Disease: Some studies suggest that higher levels of CA 15.3 at the beginning of treatment or during treatment can be linked to a more serious form of cancer. However, doctors need to interpret this carefully and combine it with other test results.

    • Monitor Metastatic Breast Cancer: CA 15.3 testing is useful for checking how metastatic breast cancer (cancer that has spread) is progressing, along with other tests that look at the hormone receptor status and HER2.

    • Help Diagnose Metastatic Breast Cancer: The CA 15.3 test can assist in diagnosing metastatic breast cancer, which occurs when the cancer spreads. It can be used in combination with other tests like imaging and other tumour markers to provide a clearer picture.

    • Guide Decisions About Treatment: Doctors can use the results of the CA 15.3 test to make better decisions about treatment. The information can help doctors know how the disease is changing and what treatments should be adjusted.

    FAQs on CA 15.3, Breast Cancer Marker Test in Delhi

    In Delhi, the CA 15.3 (Breast Cancer Marker) test is priced at ₹1350. This cost includes home sample collection within 60 minutes after booking and the delivery of results within 32 hours after collecting the sample.

    Yes, you can opt for home sample collection for the CA 15.3 (Breast Cancer Marker) test in Delhi. A qualified eMedic will visit your location within 60 minutes of booking to collect the sample from your home.

    The CA 15.3 test is used to track the progression of breast cancer, assess treatment response, and identify any recurrence of the disease, particularly in metastatic cases. It is not intended for early detection or as a routine breast cancer screening test.

    No, fasting is not required for the CA 15.3 test. You can schedule it for any time that works for you.

    To book a CA 15.3 (Breast Cancer Marker) Test with Orange Health Labs, follow these steps:

    Find the Test: Look for the "CA 15.3 (Breast Cancer Marker) Test" and choose the Orange Health Labs listing.

    Confirm Your Details: Enter your details, including location and preferred sample collection time.

    Sample Collection: An eMedic will visit your home to collect the sample.

    Sample Analysis: The collected sample will be tested at our NABL-accredited, ICMR-approved laboratory.

    Receive Results: Your test results will be sent to you via email or WhatsApp within 32 hours.

    Normal values for the CA 15.3 (Breast Cancer Marker) test are usually considered to be below 35 U/mL. Higher levels may indicate the progression or recurrence of breast cancer.

    Typically, reports for the CA 15.3 test are available within 32 hours after the sample collection.

    The frequency at which you should undergo the CA 15.3 (Breast Cancer Marker) test is based on the recommendations of your doctor. It is typically conducted periodically to assess the effectiveness of treatment and monitor any potential recurrence.

    The CA 15.3 test detects only one parameter: the level of cancer antigen 15-3, a tumour marker commonly associated with advanced breast cancer.

    Orange Health offers home sample collection for the CA 15.3 (Breast Cancer Marker) test across many locations in Delhi, including but not limited to, Connaught Place, Chandni Chowk, Karol Bagh, Lajpat Nagar, South Extension, Greater Kailash, Hauz Khas, Saket, Vasant Kunj, Dwarka, Rohini, Pitampura, Janakpuri, Rajouri Garden, Mayur Vihar, Preet Vihar, Shahdara, Laxmi Nagar, Green Park, Safdarjung Enclave, Defence Colony, New Friends Colony, Kalkaji, Malviya Nagar, Nehru Place.

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    References

    1. CA 15-3. 2024  Available from:  https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content?contenttypeid=167&contentid=ca_15_3
    2. Cancer antigen 15-3 (CA15-3) test [Internet]. Canadian Cancer Society.  Available from:  https://cancer.ca/en/treatments/tests-and-procedures/cancer-antigen-15-3-ca-15-3
    3. Prognostic Impact of Elevation of Cancer Antigen 15-3 (CA15-3) in Patients With Early Breast Cancer With Normal Serum CA15-3 Level.  Available from:  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10139845/
    4. CA 15-3. Stanford Healthcare.  Available from:  https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-tests/t/tumor-markers/types/ca-15-3.html
    5. Qing H. Meng. Chapter 5 - Tumor markers. Self-Assessment Q&A in Clinical Laboratory Science.  Available from:  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780128220931000053.