CA-153 Levels: What to Do When It's 50.1 in an 86-Year-Old

CA-153 level is 50.1?

My mother recently had a health check-up and her CA 15-3 level was found to be 50.1.
Given her advanced age of 86, how should we proceed with this situation? She currently has a history of hypertension and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Zhuo Xiaojie, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/06/27

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Ms.
Chuo / 55 / CA 15-3 is commonly used clinically for breast cancer, third trimester of pregnancy, some patients with cirrhosis, more active lung cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer, among others.
It may sometimes also cause a slight increase in CA 15-3 levels.
1.
Separate examinations include gynecological pelvic exams, ultrasound, chest X-rays, and abdominal ultrasounds.
2.
Positron emission tomography (PET) is self-paid, costing around 30,000 TWD.
Of course, there is still the possibility of observing that levels may decrease after a few months.
Thank you for your letter.
Chen Si-Rong.

Reply Date: 2012/06/27

More Info

CA 15-3 is a tumor marker primarily used to monitor breast cancer, but it can also be elevated in other conditions, including benign diseases and other types of cancer. A CA 15-3 level of 50.1 in an 86-year-old woman is considered elevated, as normal levels are typically below 30 U/mL. However, it is essential to interpret this result in the context of the patient's overall health, medical history, and any symptoms she may be experiencing.

Given your mother's age and existing medical conditions, such as hypertension and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is crucial to approach this situation with a comprehensive evaluation. Elevated CA 15-3 levels can be associated with various factors, including:
1. Breast Cancer: The most common association, especially if there is a history of breast cancer or any breast abnormalities.

2. Other Cancers: Elevated levels can also be seen in cancers of the lung, ovary, and liver, among others.

3. Benign Conditions: Conditions such as liver disease, benign breast disease, or even autoimmune diseases can cause elevated CA 15-3 levels.

4. Inflammation or Infection: Any inflammatory process or infection can also lead to increased levels.

Recommended Steps:
1. Consultation with Oncologist: Given the elevated CA 15-3 level, it is advisable to consult with an oncologist. They can provide a more detailed assessment and determine whether further investigation is necessary.

2. Further Testing: The oncologist may recommend additional tests, such as imaging studies (mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI of the breast) or other blood tests to evaluate for potential malignancies or other underlying conditions.

3. Review of Medical History: A thorough review of your mother's medical history, including any previous cancer diagnoses, family history of cancer, and current medications, will be essential in guiding the next steps.

4. Monitoring: If no immediate cause for the elevated CA 15-3 is found, regular monitoring of the levels may be suggested to see if they change over time.

5. Management of Existing Conditions: Ensure that her hypertension and GERD are well-managed, as these conditions can impact her overall health and may complicate any further evaluations.

Conclusion:
While an elevated CA 15-3 level can be concerning, it is not definitive for cancer on its own. The next steps should involve a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional who can interpret the results in the context of your mother's overall health. Early detection and intervention are crucial, especially in older adults, so it is essential to follow up promptly with appropriate specialists.

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