CA 27.29

CA 27.29 by Access Medical Labs is a tumor marker lab test used in the diagnosis and monitoring of breast cancer. It measures the levels of a specific protein called cancer antigen 27.29 (CA 27.29) in the blood.

The test is typically ordered for patients who have been diagnosed with breast cancer to monitor their response to treatment and detect any recurrence of the disease. It can also be used to assess the effectiveness of therapy and to monitor disease progression.

The CA 27.29 test is performed on a blood sample, and the results are reported as a numerical value. The normal range for CA 27.29 can vary depending on the laboratory, but generally, levels below 38 U/mL are considered normal.

What is CA 27.29?

CA 27.29 is a tumor marker that is used in monitoring advanced breast cancer and can also be helpful in detecting recurrence. It is a protein called cancer antigen 27.29, which is produced by breast cancer cells. CA 27.29 levels can be measured through a blood test and are typically elevated in individuals with breast cancer. 

Monitoring CA 27.29 levels over time can help assess the effectiveness of treatment and detect any recurrence or progression of the disease. However, it is important to note that CA 27.29 is not specific to breast cancer and can also be elevated in other conditions, such as benign breast diseases or other types of cancers. Therefore, it is usually used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and clinical evaluations to support diagnosis and treatment decisions.

Who should get a CA 27.29 test?

CA 27.29 is a tumor marker that is primarily used to monitor breast cancer patients during and after treatment. It is not typically used for initial diagnosis of breast cancer. Therefore, ideal candidates for CA 27.29 testing would be:

Breast cancer patients: CA 27.29 testing is commonly used to monitor the response to treatment and detect any recurrence or metastasis in breast cancer patients. It can be helpful in assessing the effectiveness of therapy and guiding further treatment decisions.

Patients with a history of breast cancer: Individuals who have previously been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer may undergo CA 27.29 testing as part of their routine follow-up care. Regular monitoring of tumor markers like CA 27.29 can help detect any signs of cancer recurrence at an early stage.

It is important to note that CA 27.29 testing should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical and diagnostic findings. It is not a standalone diagnostic tool and should be used in combination with other imaging tests, physical examinations, and patient history to make informed medical decisions. The decision to perform CA 27.29 testing should be made by a healthcare provider based on the individual patient's circumstances.

What is a normal CA 27.29 range?

The normal range for CA 27.29 can vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the specific assay used for testing. However, in general, a normal range for CA 27.29 is considered to be less than 38 U/mL.

If CA 27.29 levels are found to be elevated, further evaluation and monitoring may be necessary to determine the underlying cause and to guide appropriate treatment decisions. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for the interpretation of CA 27.29 test results and to discuss any concerns or questions.

What does high CA 27.29 indicate?

When a person has a high CA 27.29 level, it suggests the possibility of active breast cancer,  recurrence, or metastasis.. However, it is important to note that a high CA 27.29 level does not provide a definitive diagnosis of breast cancer. It is just an indication that further investigation is needed.

There are several reasons why CA 27.29 levels may be elevated. In addition to breast cancer, other conditions such as benign breast disease, liver disease, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and some non-cancerous conditions can also cause an increase in CA 27.29 levels such as liver or kidney disease .

To confirm the presence of breast cancer or to determine the cause of the elevated CA 27.29 levels, additional tests, such as imaging studies (mammogram, ultrasound, MRI) and biopsies, may be necessary. These tests will help in making an accurate diagnosis and developing an appropriate treatment plan.

What does low CA 27.29 indicate?

A low CA 27.29 refers to a low level of a specific biomarker called CA 27.29 in the blood. CA 27.29 is a protein that is often used as a tumor marker for breast cancer. It is primarily used to monitor the progression of breast cancer and to assess the effectiveness of treatment.

A low CA 27.29 level may indicate several possibilities:

Absence of breast cancer: A low CA 27.29 level is generally considered a positive outcome, as it suggests that there is no active breast cancer or that the cancer is in remission. This is especially relevant for individuals who have previously been diagnosed with breast cancer and have undergone treatment.

Early-stage breast cancer: In some cases, a low CA 27.29 level may be observed in individuals with early-stage breast cancer. This can occur because CA 27.29 is not always elevated in the early stages of the disease. Therefore, additional diagnostic tests may be required to confirm the presence of breast cancer.

It is important to note that CA 27.29 is not a definitive diagnostic test for breast cancer. It is typically used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools, such as imaging tests and biopsies, to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of breast cancer status. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial for accurate interpretation of CA 27.29 levels and appropriate management of breast cancer.