Description

The Breast Cancer Monitor Blood Panel is a specialized test designed to track the progression of breast cancer by measuring specific biomarkers in the blood. These biomarkers, which are proteins produced by cancer cells or in response to cancer, can provide valuable insights into the status of the disease, including whether it's spreading, responding to treatment, or showing signs of recurrence.

Why Get This Test?

  • Monitor Cancer Progression: By measuring specific biomarkers in the blood, healthcare providers can track the progression of breast cancer and determine if the disease is spreading or responding to treatment.
  • Evaluate Treatment Effectiveness: The levels of biomarkers can help assess whether the current treatment is effective, guiding adjustments to the treatment plan when necessary.
  • Detect Recurrence: Elevated levels of specific biomarkers can signal that breast cancer may have returned, allowing for earlier intervention before symptoms manifest.

Biomarkers Tested in This Panel:

Cancer Antigen (CA) 15-3:

  • This biomarker is one of the most commonly used for monitoring breast cancer. It is typically elevated in the blood of individuals with breast cancer, particularly in those with metastatic or advanced stages of the disease. Regular monitoring of CA 15-3 levels helps in assessing treatment effectiveness and detecting recurrence.

Cancer Antigen (CA) 27.29:

  • Similar to CA 15-3, CA 27.29 is another biomarker that is useful for monitoring the status of breast cancer. This test helps healthcare providers track the cancer's response to treatment and its potential return after remission.

Test Details:

  • Fasting: Not required
  • Function: Measures the levels of biomarkers (CA 15-3 and CA 27.29) to assess the progression of breast cancer, response to treatment, and detect potential recurrence.
  • Uses:
  • Monitor treatment response: Assess the effectiveness of breast cancer therapies.
  • Detect recurrence: Identify if cancer has returned, even in the absence of symptoms.
  • Evaluate cancer progression: Determine if the cancer is spreading or metastasizing based on biomarker levels.

By testing for biomarkers like CA 15-3 and CA 27.29, the Breast Cancer Monitor Blood Panel provides critical information that helps doctors make informed decisions about treatment and detect any changes in the condition of breast cancer patients. This panel plays an essential role in ongoing cancer care and surveillance.