What is the CA 27.29 Test?

The test is used to detect CA 27.29 or Carbohydrate Antigen 27.29. CA 27.29 is a tumour marker that may be observed in people with breast cancer. Tumour markers are biomarkers produced by the tumours or other cells in the body in response to cancer. Since tumour markers are not very sensitive they can also be produced by other cells of certain other benign conditions.

Physicians use this test to monitor patients previously treated for Stage II or Stage III breast cancer. Further, it can be used to determine whether cancer has spread or metastasis has occurred. This test can also be ordered during your breast cancer treatment to measure lowering of levels, indicating that the treatment is working.

If you are considered to be at risk for cancer by your doctor or are undergoing cancer treatment, the test may be needed to see how successful the treatment is. This test must be used in conjunction with other clinical methods for monitoring breast cancer.

It can be helpful to determine a treatment plan for breast cancer or check whether it has recurred after remission following successful prior treatment. It may be a beneficial biomarker in some other cancers as well. 

CA 27.29 is measured in units per milliliter (U/mL). 

Normal test values range from 0-38 U/mL. 

CA 27.29 levels 38 U/mL or greater indicate active breast cancer, remission, or spreading of cancer to other sites in the body.

It may also indicate health conditions other than breast cancers, including other cancers and non-cancerous lesions.

The CA 27.29 test is a simple blood test wherein a blood sample is taken from the patient through a vein, taking only a few minutes. It is then sent to a laboratory for testing to find the level of CA 27.29 in the blood.

No, there are no prerequisites for the test. However, let your physician know about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, including any medications not requiring a prescription or any other substances you might use or abuse.

Elevated levels of CA 27-29 are primarily a diagnostic marker for breast cancer. 

It may also suggest cancers in any of these organs: kidney, lung, ovary, colon, stomach, pancreas, prostate, uterus, and liver. 

Other non-cancerous conditions that may cause this elevation in CA27.29 levels are first-trimester pregnancy, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, benign breast disease, liver disease, and kidney disease.

If your CA 27.29 results are abnormally elevated, your physician will likely order additional tests, including - 

• A repeat of the CA 27.29 test
• Radiological tests, such as an ultrasound or a CT scan.
• Tests to check for other cancers, such as the tumour marker test
• Biopsy, if a mass is detected