Result's- should i be worried?
Went and seen my oncologist today and my tumor markers- CA 15-3 have increased by 17 points, after previously going down 37 points. Should i be concerned that this may indicate its spreading? Pam
Forum Discussion
Was your Oncologist concerned? What pattern have your tumour markers followed in the past? Mine usually go down when treatment is changed, but there is always a "tumour flare" before then as dead cancer cells in the bloodstream are affecting the reading. Have you just changed treatment?
They can be very unreliable and respond to infection, too much coffee and stress to name just a few things that can affect the readings.
I read on an American site that you should only be worried if there is a continuing trend upwards and they double and then double again!
However, very hard to sit still and do nothing. When is your next blood test? Do you have CEA done as well? Could you ring your Oncologist for further clarification?
With love
Joy K