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CA 15-3

Also known as: CA-Breast; Cancer antigen-breast
Formal name: Cancer Antigen 15-3
Related tests: CA 27.29; Tumor markers; CEA; Her2/neu; Hormone Receptor Status; Gene Expression Tests for Breast Cancer

The Test Sample

What is being tested?

Cancer antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3) is a protein that is produced by normal breast cells. In many patients with cancerous breast tumors, there is increased production of CA 15-3 and the related cancer antigen 27.29. CA 15-3 does not cause cancer; rather, it is shed by the tumor cells and enters the bloodstream, making it useful as a tumor marker to follow the course of the cancer.

CA 15-3 is elevated in about 10% of women with early localized breast cancer and in about 70% of those with metastatic breast cancer. CA 15-3 may also be elevated in healthy people and in individuals with other cancers, conditions, or diseases, such as colorectal cancer, lung cancer, cirrhosis, hepatitis, and benign breast disease.

How is the sample collected for testing?

A blood sample is obtained by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm.

NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.

Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.

Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?

No test preparation is needed.