Order Code: C131
ABN Requirement: No
Synonyms: CA 15-3; Breast Cancer Antibody
Specimen: Serum
Volume: 1.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
Container: Gel-barrier tube (SST, Tiger Top)
Collection:
- Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
- Gently invert tube 10 times immediately after draw. DO NOT SHAKE.
- Allow blood to clot 30 minutes.
- Centrifuge for 10 minutes.
Special Instructions: Samples must be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection.
Special Information: Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e., >5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the most recent biotin administration. Patients taking a biotin dose >10 mg/day should consult with their physician or the laboratory prior to having a sample taken. Clinicians should consider biotin interference as a source of error, when clinically suspicious of the laboratory result. The CA 15-3 test methodology used is the Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay by Roche Diagnostics. Results obtained with different methods or kits cannot be used interchangeably.
Transport: Store serum at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions included with the provided shipping box.
Stability:
Ambient (15-25°C): 48 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 5 days
Frozen (-20°C): 90 days
Causes for rejection: Specimens other than serum; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits
Methodology: Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Turn Around Time: 2 – 3 days
Reference Range:
| Age | U/mL |
| All Ages | <26 |
Clinical Significance: The CA 15-3 test is used to monitor response to treatment for breast cancer, as well as to detect the recurrence of breast cancer.
The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payer being billed.