CA 15-3 Test

Test Overview

Monitoring breast cancer progression or recurrence is a vital part of patient care. One of the key tests used for this purpose is the CA 15-3 Test, which measures the level of a tumour marker commonly elevated in certain types of breast cancer. This guide provides a complete overview of the CA 15-3 Test, including its purpose, clinical significance, procedure, cost, and how to book it online through Apollo 24|7.

What Is the CA 15-3 Blood Test?

The CA 15-3 test is a blood test that measures levels of Cancer Antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3), a protein produced by breast cancer cells. This test is primarily used to monitor breast cancer progression, assess treatment response, and detect recurrence in individuals previously diagnosed with breast cancer. While CA 15-3 is most commonly associated with breast cancer, elevated levels can also occur in other conditions, including lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and liver disease.

How Much Does the CA 15-3 Blood Test Cost?

CA 15-3 Test  Price in Different Cities

The CA 15-3 test price varies based on several factors, including location, diagnostic centre, and test package options.

Factors Influencing CA 15-3 Test Price:

• Location: Prices may be higher in metropolitan hospitals compared to smaller towns or semi-urban areas.
• Test Package Type: Many laboratories offer cancer screening packages that include the CA 15-3 test, which affects the overall cost.
• Diagnostic Centre Reputation: Well-known providers like Apollo Diagnostics may offer exclusive discounts or bundled services through Apollo 24|7.
• Online Booking Discounts: Booking your test online via platforms like Apollo 24|7 can provide reduced rates or additional benefits.

For the most accurate CA 15-3 test price and available offers, visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile app and schedule your test conveniently.

Why Is the CA 15-3 Blood Test Important?

The CA 15-3 blood test is important because it helps doctors monitor breast cancer progression, treatment response, and recurrence. It measures Cancer Antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3), a protein produced by breast cancer cells, which can indicate whether the disease is spreading or responding to therapy.

While the test is not used for initial diagnosis, it plays a crucial role in tracking changes in tumour activity over time. Doctors often use CA 15-3 levels alongside imaging tests and clinical evaluations to assess whether cancer is advancing, stabilising, or improving with treatment.

Additionally, CA 15-3 levels may be elevated in other cancers or non-cancerous conditions, such as liver disease or ovarian cysts, making careful interpretation essential. This test provides valuable insights for personalised cancer management, helping doctors make informed decisions about treatment adjustments and follow-up care.

Who Should Get the CA 15-3 Blood Test?

Doctors may recommend a CA 15-3 test if you have:

• A diagnosed case of breast cancer and needs monitoring for treatment response or recurrence.
• Unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue, which may indicate cancer progression.
• Bone pain or swelling, suggesting possible metastasis.
• A history of breast cancer, requiring regular follow-up testing.
• Ongoing chemotherapy or targeted therapy, where CA 15-3 levels help assess effectiveness.
• Other cancers, such as lung or ovarian cancer, where CA 15-3 levels may also rise.

If you fall into any of these categories, the test helps doctors track tumour activity, ensuring timely intervention and personalised treatment.

How to Prepare for the CA 15-3 Blood Test?

The CA 15-3 test is a blood test used to monitor breast cancer progression, treatment response, and recurrence. While it requires no special preparation, certain factors can help ensure accurate results.

• Fasting: No fasting is required unless the test is part of a broader panel that includes fasting-dependent tests.
• Medication Disclosure: Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, especially chemotherapy or hormone therapy, as these can affect results.
• Avoiding Biotin Supplements: Refrain from taking biotin (vitamin B7) supplements for at least 12 hours before the test, as they may interfere with results.
• Recent Illness or Infection: Inform your doctor if you've had a recent viral or bacterial infection, as this can influence CA 15-3 levels.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids before your appointment to facilitate smooth blood sample collection.

What Is the Procedure for the CA 15-3 Blood Test?

The procedure is straightforward and involves the following steps:

• Blood Sample Collection: A healthcare professional will clean the skin with antiseptic and insert a sterile needle into a vein, usually in the arm, to draw a small blood sample.
• Laboratory Analysis: The blood sample is sent to a lab, where it is tested using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) to measure CA 15-3 levels.
• Result Interpretation: Results are typically available within a few days, depending on the diagnostic centre. CA 15-3 levels are analysed to determine whether they are elevated, which may indicate cancer progression or recurrence.

Because CA 15-3 levels fluctuate based on cancer progression, treatment response, or recurrence, doctors often advise repeat testing at scheduled intervals. Tracking these changes over time helps assess whether tumours are growing, stabilising, or responding to therapy, allowing for timely adjustments in treatment.

Understanding CA 15-3 Blood Test Results

The CA 15-3 test measures the level of cancer antigen 15-3, a protein produced by breast cancer cells. While not used for screening or diagnosis, it is valuable in monitoring breast cancer progression and assessing treatment efficacy.

Normal Range

The normal reference range for CA 15-3 is typically below 30 U/mL, though exact values may vary depending on the laboratory and testing method used.

Elevated CA 15-3 Levels and Their Implications

Elevated CA 15-3 levels can indicate breast cancer, particularly in metastatic cases, where the cancer has spread beyond the breast. However, increased levels are not exclusive to breast cancer and may also be associated with other malignancies, including lung, ovarian, pancreatic, and liver cancers. Additionally, certain benign conditions, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, and benign breast disorders, can lead to elevated CA 15-3 levels.

It is important to note that a single elevated CA 15-3 result is not diagnostic of cancer. Healthcare providers typically evaluate CA 15-3 levels alongside other diagnostic tests, imaging studies, and clinical assessments to form a comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition.

Monitoring and Trends

Serial measurements of CA 15-3 over time are more informative than a single test result. An increasing trend may suggest disease progression or recurrence, while a decreasing trend may indicate a positive response to treatment. However, fluctuations can also occur due to factors unrelated to cancer, emphasising the need for a holistic approach to interpretation.

Limitations of the CA 15-3 Blood Test

CA 15-3 is not elevated in all individuals with breast cancer, meaning that a normal result does not rule out the presence of breast cancer. Additionally, elevated CA 15-3 levels can be transient and may not necessarily correlate with disease status.

What Factors Affect CA 15-3 Levels?

Several factors can influence CA 15-3 levels:

• Treatment Effects: Chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy can cause fluctuations in levels.
• Other Cancers: Lung, ovarian, pancreatic, and liver cancers may also elevate CA 15-3.
• Liver Disease: Cirrhosis and hepatitis can result in falsely increased levels.
• Benign Breast Disorders: Fibrocystic breast disease and other non-cancerous conditions may cause mild elevations.
• Inflammation or Infection: Viral or bacterial infections can temporarily raise levels.
• Hormonal Changes: Menopause, pregnancy, and birth control use may impact CA 15-3.
• Laboratory Differences: Testing methods vary, leading to slight variations in reference ranges.

How to Access Your CA 15-3 Blood Test Report on Apollo 24|7

If you’ve recently taken the CA 15-3 Test through Apollo, you can view your results online quickly and easily by following these steps:

• Wait for a Notification: Apollo 24|7 will send you an SMS or email alert as soon as your CA 15-3 test results are ready.
• Log In to Your Apollo 24|7 Account: Use your registered mobile number or email ID to securely log in to your account via the Apollo 24|7 website or app.
• Go to the Reports Section: After logging in, navigate to the “Reports” tab on your dashboard. This is where all your medical test reports are stored.
• Find Your CA 15-3 Test Report: Scroll through your reports or use the search bar to quickly locate your CA 15-3 Test result.
• View or Download Your Report: Click on the report to see detailed test results, including your CA 15-3 levels and reference ranges. You can also download the report as a PDF for future reference or to share with your doctor.

If you have questions about your CA 15-3 results or need help interpreting them, Apollo 24|7 makes it easy to connect with a specialist. You can book an online consultation with a specialist, such as an oncologist or general physician, for expert guidance and next steps.