CEA and CA15-3 Levels After Breast Cancer Treatment - Oncology

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Understanding the levels of tumor markers such as CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) and CA 15-3 (Cancer Antigen 15-3) after breast cancer treatment is crucial for monitoring the disease and assessing the effectiveness of therapy. In your mother's case, she has undergone significant treatment for stage III breast cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The levels of CEA and CA 15-3 that you mentioned—6.1 and 32.4 before surgery, and then 5.0 and 27.5 one month post-surgery—are indeed important indicators to consider.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that both CEA and CA 15-3 are not definitive tests for the presence of cancer. They are used primarily as tools to monitor treatment response and detect recurrence. The normal range for CEA is generally considered to be between 0-5 ng/mL, while CA 15-3 is typically regarded as normal below 31 U/mL. In your mother's case, while her CEA levels have decreased to 5.0, which is at the upper limit of normal, her CA 15-3 levels remain elevated at 27.5, which is still above the normal threshold but has decreased from the pre-surgery level.

The persistence of elevated tumor markers does not necessarily indicate the presence of residual cancer cells. There are several factors that can influence these levels, including the type of cancer, the individual’s response to treatment, and even benign conditions. It is also important to note that tumor markers can sometimes yield false positives or negatives, meaning that normal levels do not guarantee the absence of cancer, and elevated levels do not always confirm its presence.

Regarding your concern about whether there are remaining cancer cells, it is crucial to discuss this with your oncologist. They may consider additional imaging studies, such as a PET scan, which can provide more detailed information about the metabolic activity of tissues and help identify any areas of concern that may not be visible on standard imaging. PET scans are particularly useful in detecting cancer recurrence, as they can show areas of increased glucose metabolism, which is often associated with cancer cells.

In summary, while the levels of CEA and CA 15-3 are important for monitoring your mother's condition, they should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and imaging studies. The decrease in CEA is a positive sign, and while the CA 15-3 level is still elevated, it is essential to have a comprehensive evaluation by her healthcare team to determine the next steps. Regular follow-up appointments and discussions about her treatment plan will be vital in ensuring she receives the best possible care moving forward. Encourage your mother to maintain open communication with her oncologist and to express any concerns she may have regarding her treatment and monitoring process.