Cancer Related
CA 15.3 Blood Test
£72.00
Monitor breast health and track clinical therapy with a private Cancer Antigen 15.3 (CA 15.3) blood test at Medical Diagnosis Victoria (MDX Victoria) in London.
This targeted assay measures the concentration of CA 15.3 in your bloodstream, a protein biomarker primarily associated with breast tissue. While not indicated for standalone early diagnosis, it serves as a valuable clinical tool for monitoring individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, evaluating how well a current treatment plan is working, and detecting potential recurrence during long-term follow-up care.
With a 5-day turnaround, this specialist screening provides the reliable clinical data your doctor needs to support ongoing oncology management and assess treatment progress.
Oncology & Tumour Marker Surveillance
Private CA 15.3 Blood Test in London
Cancer Antigen 15.3 (CA 15.3) is a vital diagnostic tumour marker primarily used in the management of breast cancer. At Medical Diagnosis Victoria (MDX Victoria), we provide a private CA 15.3 blood test to help oncologists and patients accurately track treatment response and monitor for cancer recurrence. While not designed for early diagnosis, this specialist assay offers crucial biochemical insights when combined with clinical imaging. Our expert team in central London ensures a discreet, compassionate, and highly professional testing experience.
📊 Test Specifications
Clinic Testing Fee
£72.00
+ £24.00 Phlebotomy Fee
Sample RequiredBlood Sample
Turnaround Time5 Days Processing
PreparationNo special instructions
StatusReferral Laboratory Analysis
Diagnostic Focus
What is the Cancer Antigen 15.3 (CA 15.3) Test?
Cancer Antigen 15.3 is a protein produced by normal breast cells, but it is frequently overproduced by breast cancer cells. As malignant cells multiply or respond to therapy, the amount of CA 15.3 shed into the bloodstream fluctuates. Measuring this protein provides an objective, systemic marker that helps clinicians evaluate how a patient is responding to oncology treatments or detect early signs of a relapse during post-treatment surveillance.
Treatment Response
Evaluating this biomarker helps to:
- Track progress during chemotherapy
- Assess response to targeted hormone therapy
- Evaluate tumour shrinkage objectively
- Guide medical oncology decisions
Recurrence Monitoring
This test is highly useful because it:
- Detects rising levels post-remission
- Signals potential disease relapse early
- Complements routine mammography
- Provides peace of mind during follow-up
Breast Cancer Management
The laboratory provides critical data to:
- Monitor advanced or metastatic disease
- Support multidisciplinary care plans
- Evaluate changes between clinical scans
- Assess overall disease stability
Clinical Uses
Why is Blood Testing for CA 15.3 Important?
For women with a history of breast cancer, ongoing surveillance is a critical aspect of survivorship. While the CA 15.3 test is not designed to screen for new breast cancers in healthy women due to limited sensitivity, it is highly valuable for patients who already have a confirmed diagnosis. Serial testing allows oncologists to see the “biochemical trend” of the disease, often identifying shifts before they are visible on imaging.
Tracking Active Treatment
During active oncology treatment, your specialist will likely measure CA 15.3 levels regularly. The primary goals are:
- Confirming Efficacy: A steady decrease in CA 15.3 levels usually indicates that the tumour is shrinking and responding well to chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy.
- Adjusting Therapy: If levels remain stable or rise despite treatment, the clinical team may reassess the therapeutic approach.
Long-Term Post-Treatment Surveillance
Following successful treatment and remission, the CA 15.3 blood test is frequently integrated into long-term follow-up care to:
- Provide regular biochemical monitoring alongside physical examinations and mammograms.
- Act as an early warning system; a consistent rise in levels can precede clinical symptoms of recurrence by several months, allowing for prompt reinvestigation.
Important Note on Early Diagnosis
The CA 15.3 test is an important tool for managing breast cancer but is not suitable for early diagnosis due to its limited sensitivity and specificity. Early-stage breast cancer frequently does not produce enough of the antigen to elevate blood levels, and benign conditions can cause false positives. It is most effective when used in combination with clinical evaluation and imaging (such as ultrasound or mammography).
Clinic Excellence
Why Choose Medical Diagnosis Victoria (MDX Victoria)?
Specialist Referral Laboratory Analysis
Your blood sample is securely transferred to an accredited referral laboratory using validated immunoassay technology to guarantee the precision necessary for serial tumour marker tracking.
Reliable 5 Day Turnaround
We ensure seamless sample transportation and meticulous laboratory processing so your comprehensive pathology report is securely delivered within 5 days.
Central London Care
Conveniently situated in Victoria, our clinic provides a warm, respectful, and fully private setting for your sensitive diagnostic blood tests.
Clear Pricing
£72.00 test fee plus a £24.00 blood draw fee with no hidden costs. Our experienced practitioners ensure your visit is completely straightforward.
Pathology Reports
How To Read Your Laboratory Results
Your report will specify your serum CA 15.3 level, typically measured in units per millilitre (U/mL). Normal reference ranges can vary slightly between laboratories, but values below 30 U/mL are generally considered normal. The absolute number is often less important than the trend over time. A falling or stable CA 15.3 level indicates that a tumour is responding to treatment. A consistently rising trend usually prompts your medical team to schedule further imaging or review your current therapy plan.
Results Timeline: Your specialist diagnostic report is typically available within 5 days of your blood draw.
Medical Consultation
Need Help? Private GP Consultations
Tumour markers require careful interpretation by clinical professionals familiar with your complete medical history. If your CA 15.3 result shows a rising trend, or if you need assistance understanding your numbers within the context of your breast cancer surveillance, we offer private GP consultations on site. Our team can review your results, organise further scans, and coordinate communication with your consultant oncologist.
Clinic Support
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the CA 15.3 test be used for early breast cancer screening?
No. The CA 15.3 test is a crucial tool for managing known breast cancer, but it is not suitable for early diagnosis. This is due to its limited sensitivity (early-stage cancers often do not raise levels) and limited specificity (non-cancerous conditions can also cause elevations). It is most effective when used for monitoring alongside imaging and clinical evaluation.
Do I need to fast before a CA 15.3 blood test?
No special fasting is required before a CA 15.3 blood test. You may eat and drink normally prior to your appointment.
How quickly will I receive my CA 15.3 test results?
Because this biomarker requires precise quantitative testing performed at an accredited referral laboratory, your comprehensive report will be securely delivered within 5 days.
Is the phlebotomy fee included in the £72.00 price?
No, the £24.00 phlebotomy service fee is separate and covers the professional blood draw carried out by our experienced healthcare team at our central Victoria clinic.
What non-cancerous conditions can elevate CA 15.3?
Benign breast conditions, chronic liver disease (such as cirrhosis or hepatitis), endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease can occasionally cause mild to moderate elevations in CA 15.3 levels.
Online Trends
Most Searched Online Questions About CA 15.3
Is CA 15.3 elevated in all breast cancer patients?
No. It is estimated that CA 15.3 is elevated in only about 10% to 30% of women with early-stage breast cancer, which is why it is not used for screening. However, it is elevated in approximately 70% to 80% of women with advanced (metastatic) breast cancer.
What does a sudden spike in CA 15.3 mean?
During treatment, a temporary spike can sometimes occur as cancer cells are destroyed and release their proteins into the blood. However, a persistent, long-term rising trend usually suggests that the cancer may be growing or spreading, requiring a review by an oncologist.
Is this test used alongside other tumour markers?
Yes. In breast cancer management, CA 15.3 is sometimes ordered alongside another marker called CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen). Evaluating both can sometimes provide a more comprehensive picture of treatment response.
Related Health Categories
Book Your Private Blood Test in London Today
Take Control of Your Health Surveillance
Stay informed about your treatment progress and long-term recovery. Secure your Cancer Antigen 15.3 (CA 15.3) blood test at Medical Diagnosis Victoria (MDX Victoria) today. Visit our welcoming, discreet London clinic and let our expert clinical team support your health journey with clear, accurate diagnostic monitoring.
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