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Laboratory test

CA 15-3 Test (Cancer Antigen 15-3)

Explore the CA 15-3 (Breast Cancer Marker) test at PingMeDoc™ for the specified laboratory investigation. Check the exact measurements, specimen type, preparation instructions, current price and report turnaround shown in the laboratory catalogue. Ask a doctor whether this test is appropriate for your symptoms or monitoring needs.

Also known as

CA 15-3 Test · Cancer Antigen 15-3 · CA 15.3 · CA15-3 Marker · Breast Cancer Marker · Marker CA 15 3 · CA 15 3 Blood Test · CA 15-3 test · CA15-3 tumor marker · Breast cancer marker CA 15-3

Sample
Blood
Fasting
Not required
Expected report time
Same day / 24 hours
Parameters
1

CA 15-3 Test: quick answers

CA 15-3 Test full form
Cancer Antigen 15-3
CA 15-3 Test price
₹1,149, home sample collection
Normal range (adults)
Typical adult: Below about 30 U/mL
Done for
Following the response to treatment in metastatic (spread) breast cancer; Supporting a doctor's suspicion that known breast cancer has returned; Tracking a trend over time, always with imaging and examination
Fasting
Not required
Report
Same day / 24 hours

What is the CA 15-3 Test?

CA 15-3 is a protein released by some breast cancer cells into the blood. It is a monitoring test, not a screening or diagnostic test: it cannot tell whether you have breast cancer. It is used mainly to follow people already diagnosed with advanced breast cancer, alongside scans and examination.

CA 15-3 Test normal range

MeasurementTypical adult value
Typical adultBelow about 30 U/mL

Cut-offs differ slightly by assay and lab. The trend over several tests in the same lab matters more than one number. Many people with breast cancer, especially early disease, have a normal CA 15-3, and a raised value does not mean cancer.

Ranges differ between laboratories and methods. The reference range printed on your own report is the one to read your result against.

What your CA 15-3 Test result means

High
In someone with known breast cancer, a rising level can suggest the disease is active or has spread, and a falling level can suggest treatment is working. Benign breast disease, liver disease, and cancers of the lung, ovary and pancreas can also raise it.
Normal
Does not rule out breast cancer. A normal value cannot be used to reassure someone with a lump or an abnormal mammogram.

One result is not a diagnosis. A doctor reads it with your symptoms, history, medicines and other tests.

Why is the CA 15-3 Test done?

  • Following the response to treatment in metastatic (spread) breast cancer
  • Supporting a doctor's suspicion that known breast cancer has returned
  • Tracking a trend over time, always with imaging and examination

What does the CA 15-3 Test (Cancer Antigen 15-3) measure?

1 parameter. Expand a group to see the measurements, units and available method details.

Other measurements1 parameter
ParameterUnitCatalogue method
CA 15-3U/mLCLIA

The reference interval printed on your actual laboratory report governs interpretation. Intervals can vary by laboratory, method, age, sex and pregnancy. Methods can also vary by processing laboratory.

CA 15-3 Test: sample & preparation

Sample: Blood. Fasting: Not required.

  • No fasting is required. This test is used mainly to monitor treatment response and detect recurrence in a known breast cancer, not to screen for it.

Frequently asked questions

Is CA 15-3 a test for breast cancer?
No. It is not used to screen for or diagnose breast cancer. Cancer guidelines recommend it only for monitoring people already diagnosed, mostly those with advanced disease. If you have a breast lump or symptoms, see a doctor for examination, imaging and biopsy.
What is a normal CA 15-3 level?
Usually below about 30 U/mL, though cut-offs differ by lab. A value in the normal range does not rule out cancer, and a mildly raised value is often not cancer.
Can CA 15-3 be high without cancer?
Yes. Benign breast conditions, liver disease, kidney disease, endometriosis and some other cancers can raise it. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can also affect it.
What does a rising CA 15-3 mean after breast cancer treatment?
It can be an early hint that the cancer is active again, but it is not proof. Your oncologist will confirm with scans or other tests before changing treatment.
How often is CA 15-3 repeated?
Only as your oncologist advises, usually at set intervals during treatment of advanced disease. Use the same lab each time so results can be compared.
How much does the CA 15-3 (Breast Cancer Marker) cost?
The current online price is ₹1,149. Review your booking total before payment.
Can I book this test for home collection?
Yes. Add your collection address and choose an available collection slot at checkout.
When is the report expected?
The catalogue lists Same day / 24 hours. Confirm the collection and report schedule with the booking team.
Can I book this with other tests?
You can add available tests to the same cart. Review the combined preparation instructions and collection requirements with the booking team.

Sources: Harris L et al. American Society of Clinical Oncology 2007 update of recommendations for the use of tumor markers in breast cancer; NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Breast Cancer; Tietz Textbook of Laboratory Medicine, 7th edition, 2022. General information, not medical advice.

This page gives catalogue facts only (sample, preparation, report time) and has not been reviewed by a doctor. It is general information, not a diagnosis or advice for you: your doctor decides which tests you need and what the results mean.

Book the CA 15-3 Test (Cancer Antigen 15-3)

1 parameter · No fasting required · Report time: Same day / 24 hours

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₹1,149
₹1,149

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