Breast cancer markers

Breast cancer markers are specific molecules produced in the body of women as a response to cancer, and also under certain other conditions. If the level of cancer markers is higher than normal, then this may indicate that there is a cancer process. Without oncomarkers, it is difficult to do both in diagnosis and in monitoring diseases related to oncology. Often early diagnosis of breast cancer is carried out precisely because of tumor markers.

Oncomarkers for breast cancer circulate in the blood. Their number should not exceed the norm. However, if their level is still elevated, this does not always mean that there are irreversible changes in the cells. Most often, a false positive result can be due to the presence of inflammation, a disease of the pancreas, liver, and kidneys. Nevertheless, in all cases, when the breast cancer marker is increased, it is necessary to undergo an additional examination to exclude cancer.

CA 15-3

Tumor markers can exist in the form of antigens, enzymes, hormones and proteins. Different markers are produced by different types of tumors. About breast cancer says an elevated level of the marker CA 15-3 (specific antigen). The level of its specificity reaches 95% in the diagnosis of breast carcinoma in comparison with benign tumors, in which it can also be slightly elevated.

The tumor marker CA 15-3 in its concentration is directly proportional to the size of the tumor. Also, its elevated values ​​may indicate that lymph nodes are involved in the oncology process. Determining the level of this oncomarker allows you to accurately track how the process develops, and whether the treatment is effective. It is for this reason that single analyzes are prescribed much less often than analyzes in dynamics. It is considered that if this marker rises in blood serum by 25%, then the disease progresses. If its level is steadily decreasing, then the therapy is considered effective.

In addition, the CA 15-3 cancer marker is always checked when monitoring the formation of metastases and relapses. However, after chemotherapy or radiotherapy, as well as individual manipulations, its level may temporarily rise. This indicates that the tumor is being destroyed.

There is evidence that during pregnancy, the level of CA 15-3 is often increased, which is not a sign of cancer.

CA 15-3 and REA

To more accurately determine the presence and follow-up of tumor development, it is advisable to investigate the level of some other tumor markers. Most often, CA 15-3 is tested in conjunction with REA (cancer-embryonic antigen), which is a marker of tumors of the rectum.

Breast cancer markers: norm

The norm of CA 15-3 is from 0 to 22 U / ml. As a rule, pathology can be detected when the concentration exceeds 30 U / ml. According to statistics, in 80% of patients the increase in the level of this cancer marker indicates a metastasizing cancer process. REA should normally be from 0 to 5 U / ml.

If you are taking an analysis for breast cancer markers, the transcript must be done solely by the doctor. As a rule, the diagnosis is not made on the basis of detecting only the hung level of oncomarkers. It is necessary to conduct a whole complex of studies to confirm the presence of oncology.

Do not be afraid to take tests, because 98% of cases of breast cancer end in complete cure, if the diagnosis was timely and correct.