Test- Breast Cancer

Would you please explain to me what the following test are, and what do they reveal?   CA-27, 29   CBC , CEA , CMP    Thanks, Ninkie

[riley180]

CA-27.29 means Carbohydrate Antigen 27.29 (previously called Cancer Antigen). These are carbohydrate groups on the surface of cells that are shed off. The human blood types (ABO) are likewise coded with their own unique carbohydrates. Cancer cells generally shed more of them, and these may serve as tumor markers. There is normal expression (hence the name Cancer Antigen is being discouraged) of these carbohydrate groups and so the tests are not useful to screen all women. There is promising use in women who are known to have breast cancer to detect recurrence. At the current time however, there is no strong evidence to support routine use.

The CBC means complete blood count. Estimates components of blood including :  red blood cells (for oxygen distribution), white blood cells (for defense), and platelets (for clotting). This is routinely used from diagnosis to treatment phases.

CEA is another biomarker. CarcinoEmbryonic Antigen, these are carbohydrate groups on the surface of cells, normal and cancerous. Cancer cells tend to overexpress them, and hence may be used like CA 27.29, in monitoring disease. There is strong evidence to support use in Colon Cancer monitoring for recurrence but not for Breast.

CMP carbohydrate mimetic peptide. Tumors are covered with carbohydrates by which they are identified. CMPs are being developed for vaccines.. CMPs are being developed as vaccines to target cancer cells. These are still investigational agents.

[Ninkie]

Thankyou so much for taking the time to answer the questions about the test for breast cancer follow ups, and what they exactualy tell you .May God Bless you .    Thanks, ninkie