Overview and Clinical Significance
CA 15-3 (Cancer Antigen 15-3) is a tumor marker primarily associated with breast cancer, though it can also be elevated in lung, ovarian, and other malignancies. It is a glycoprotein released into the bloodstream by cancerous cells, aiding in cancer monitoring and treatment response assessment.
Clinical Significance
- Breast Cancer Progression & Monitoring: CA 15-3 is used to track metastatic breast cancer, helping assess tumor stability, growth, or recurrence.
- Other Malignancies & Non-Cancerous Conditions: Elevated CA 15-3 levels may also be seen in lung and ovarian cancers, as well as benign breast, liver, and gastrointestinal conditions.
- Treatment Response & Prognostic Value: A decline in CA 15-3 levels during therapy often indicates positive treatment response, while an increase may suggest disease progression.
- Limitations & Complementary Testing: CA 15-3 is not a standalone diagnostic tool, so it is often combined with imaging studies and other biomarkers for a more accurate assessment.
CA 15-3 is a key biomarker for breast cancer management, influencing diagnostic accuracy, treatment monitoring, and prognostic evaluations.
