CA 27 29 Cancer Antigen

Category:

CA-27.29(Cancer Antigen)

Description

CA 27.29 is a protein that is produced by the MUC-1 gene. Breast cancer cells will shed copies of the CA 27.29 protein in the bloodstream. During treatment, levels of CA 27.29 may fall, indicating that your treatment is effectively killing the cancer. If CA 27.29 levels rise, cancer may be progressing and it may be necessary to adjust treatments accordingly.

Its concentration is measured by means of analysis of a blood sample drawn from the vein in the arm.

Purpose of the test

Cancer antigen 27.29 test is a blood test that is given specifically for breast cancer. The antigen CA 27.29 is found in the blood of women who have breast cancer. If CA 27.29 levels rise, it may indicate that the cancer is progressing or spreading. One version of this test is called the "Truquant BR Radioimmunoassay test."

The CA 27.29 test is used to monitor:

- Response to treatment
- Status of the cancer
- Possibility of early recurrence

It is often useful along with other tests, such as imaging, to evaluate recurrence and response to treatment.

Reference range values

0-40 U/mL

Abnormal findings

If a cancerous tumor is present, levels of CA 15-3 may increase as the number of cancer cells increase. Tumor cells will shed copies of the CA 15-3 protein, which can be measured by this blood test and by a related test of cancer antigen 27.29.

Other cancers can produce CA 27.29 (colon, liver, lung, pancreatic, ovarian and prostate), but some non life-threatening conditions may also cause CA 27.29 to show up in blood (ovarian cysts and benign conditions of the breast, liver and kidneys).