CA 15-3
Clinical Biochemistry
Sample and container requirements
Serum Lithium Heparin Plasma (paediatrics only)
Minimum volume required
Special requirements
None
Patient preparation
None
Sample viability
Turnaround time
This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours.
Reference range
<31.3 kU/L (Source: Abbott Diagnostics)
Clinical guidance
CA 15-3 is primarily used as a marker of breast cancer. Please refer to LabTestsOnlineUK to learn more about CA 15-3. https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/ca-15-3-test
Notes
CA 15-3 should not be used as a cancer screening test.
Images to go here
This information was last updated on 19 August 2026