CA 15-3 as a Predictor in Breast Cancer Treatment
Author Information
Author(s): Al-azawi Dhafir, Kelly Gabrielle, Myers Eddie, McDermott Enda W, Hill Arnold DK, Duffy Michael J, Higgins Niall O
Primary Institution: St. Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
Hypothesis
CA 15-3 levels can predict response and disease recurrence in locally advanced breast cancer after primary chemotherapy.
Conclusion
Elevated CA 15-3 levels predict a poor response to chemotherapy and reduced disease-free survival in locally advanced breast cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with high CA 15-3 levels before treatment had poor clinical and pathological responses.
- Persistently elevated CA 15-3 levels post-treatment were linked to a higher risk of disease recurrence.
- High CA 15-3 levels were associated with reduced disease-free survival.
Takeaway
If a blood test shows high CA 15-3 levels, it might mean that the treatment for breast cancer isn't working well.
Methodology
The study reviewed pre and post chemotherapy CA 15-3 levels and other variables in 73 patients to assess their relationship with treatment outcomes.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in patient selection and retrospective data collection.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and may not account for all variables affecting outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Mean age was 52.3 years, with a range from 26 to 96 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.007
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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