CA 15-3

CA 15-3

What's

CA 15-3

Cancer Antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3) is a protein that is usually found in small amounts in our blood. However, it can be found in higher levels in people with certain types of cancer, especially breast cancer. The CA 15-3 test checks the amount of this protein in your blood. While it's not a test that can diagnose cancer on its own, it can help give more information about the presence and growth of cancer when used with other tests and exams. It's also used to keep track of how well treatment is working for patients who have already been diagnosed with cancer.

If Your Levels Are High

Elevated CA 15-3 levels might mean that your body is going through some changes or facing challenges. This protein is usually produced more when certain cells, like those in breast tissue, grow or change faster than normal. This can happen for various reasons, such as inflammation, hormone imbalances, or infections. Some medications or treatments can also lead to higher CA 15-3 levels. Keep in mind that while high levels of this protein can be linked to certain cancers, they can also be related to non-cancerous conditions like liver disease, endometriosis, or ovarian cysts.

Symptoms of High Levels

Symptoms of high levels of CA 15-3 may not be specific and can vary widely, but they could include fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or discomfort in the area of the breast or abdomen.

If Your Levels are Low

Low levels of CA 15-3 in your blood generally mean that your body isn't producing an excess of this protein, which is often linked to certain cancers, especially breast cancer. This could be due to various reasons, such as your body's natural way of controlling protein production, the success of any ongoing cancer treatments, or simply not having cancer. Some medications or therapies, like hormone therapy or chemotherapy, might also affect CA 15-3 levels. It's important to remember that low CA 15-3 levels are usually considered normal for people without cancer.

Symptoms of Low Levels

Symptoms of low levels of CA 15-3 are typically not noticeable, as this condition is generally considered normal and does not usually present any specific signs or discomfort.

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See References

Test for

Cancer Panel, Female Extended by Access Med Labs

Serum

The Female Extended Cancer Panel takes an investigative approach to your health, further assessing potential areas where cancer may be present. This panel analyzes tumor markers that help detect liver, pancreatic, gastrointestinal, breast, and ovarian cancers.

CA 15-3 by Access Med Labs

Serum

This is a single-marker test measuring CA 15-3. CA 15-3 may be useful in monitoring response to therapy in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Cancer Panel, Female by Access Med Labs

Serum

The Female Basic Cancer Panel analyzes three tumor markers to help identify the presence of ovarian, breast, and pancreatic cancer cells inside the body.

Cancer Antigen (CA) 15-3 by Access Labcorp Draw

Serum

This is a single-marker test measuring CA 15-3. CA 15-3 may be useful in monitoring response to therapy in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

CONTENTS

What is it?

High Levels

Low Levels

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