Pathology Handbook

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CA 15-3

Laboratory:

Clinical Biochemistry

Test Code:

CA153

Specimen Types:

Blood

Container Types:

SST
Lithium Heparin (with Gel)

Adults Volume or Mass:

5 mL

Minimum/Paediatric Volume or Mass:

2 mL

Collection & Request Instructions:

Ca 15-3 should only be used for follow up of patients with histologically proven tumour and not for screening for cancer. While sensitivity and specificity are low in early breast cancer, levels may be elevated in advanced disease. Ca15-3 measurement might aid in the detection of recurrent and metastatic disease.

Transport Instructions between Sites and/or Laboratories:

RoomTemp within Alfred/Esky from External sites

Assay Frequency:

24/7

MBS Rebatable:

Yes

MBS Item No.:

66650

Billing Information:

Also MBS Item Nos 66651, 66652, and 66653

Additional Notes:

Reference Range: < 31 kU/L