Blood test for breast cancer

I  got the results of a cancer marker test for breast cancer. it is called CA27.29, my results were 45.4U/mL, the normal is 0-38.6. All I was told was to get it checked again in a month. I finished radiation treatments in June for intra-ductal carsanoma in siti. Can you tell me what this means? I elected not to take Tamofoxin, should this have an effect on my decision if it comes back that high again?  Thankyou


This discussion is related to CA27.29 tumor markers.

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

As far as present day recommendations are concerned, the testing for this marker is still not routinely recommended for the exact usefullness of this test is still not definite.  For example, in your situation, in the presence of a high level result, your doctors are still not sure on the best way to deal with this result (whether to observe and have the test repeated, or undergo further testing such as X rays or ultrasound of liver).

More often, a high result really does not mean anything significant, especially if the repeat tests reveal almost the same levels.  You may have missed out on a smal but significant incremental benefit in survival when you forego with the tamoxifen treatment, but starting it now would still provide some benefit (and this should be discussed with your oncologist).

Regards.