Test Overview
Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA)
May be useful for predicting early recurrence of disease in women who have been treated for stage II or stage III carcinoma of the breast. This test should be used in conjunction with other clinical methods used for the early detection of recurrence. The test can aid in the management of breast cancer patients with metastatic disease by monitoring the progression or response to treatment. CA 15-3 can be elevated in patients with other malignancies such as lung cancer and other non-malignant disorders.
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
Not useful as a screening test for carcinoma of the breast. The use of this test is not defined in males.
Test Details
4 hours
- Breast Carcinoma Associated Antigen CA 15-3
- Cancer Antigen 15-3
- Carbohydrate Antigen 15-3
Specimen Requirements
Collect specimen in an SST or red top tube. Refrigerate and send intact specimen within 8 hours of collection. Alternatively, centrifuge, aliquot serum into a plastic vial and refrigerate up to 48 hours or freeze for longer storage.
Additional Information
Tested by a chemiluminescent immunoassay manufactured by Siemens Healthineers, performed on Atellica IM system. Results determined from different manufacturers and/or methods may not be comparable.