Home Tests CA 15-3 - Cancer Ag 15-3

CA 15-3 - Cancer Ag 15-3

Umm Al Hamam Al Gharbi, Riyadh - 145KM

What is CA 15-3?
Cancer Antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3) is a protein that is produced by normal and cancerous cells. It is primarily used as a tumor marker for breast cancer and is helpful in monitoring treatment and detecting recurrences.

When Should You Do the CA 15-3 Test?
Breast Cancer: This test is most often used for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer to assess the response to treatment or detect cancer recurrence. It is not typically used for early detection or screening in the general population.
Metastatic Breast Cancer: Elevated levels of CA 15-3 are often associated with metastatic breast cancer, where cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Monitoring: CA 15-3 is used in combination with other diagnostic tools like imaging studies to follow the progress of cancer treatment.
What to Do Before the Test?
No Special Preparations: The CA 15-3 test generally does not require any specific preparations such as fasting or medication adjustments.
Follow Doctor’s Advice: Depending on the patient’s medical history, the healthcare provider might give specific instructions for optimal test accuracy.
Importance of the Test
CA 15-3 is an important marker in managing breast cancer. It helps healthcare providers evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, track the progression of the disease, and detect potential recurrences early. However, it is not a definitive diagnostic tool for cancer and should be used alongside other tests.