Accurate assessment for risk of recurrence after initial treatment leads to early detection of recurrent disease, and can provide a more chance to cure and prolong the survival of patients with breast carcinoma. Serial measurements of serum CA
15-3
and
CEA level have been used as a screening method of recurrence. However, their precise role in the management of patients with breast carcinoma is not firmly established. Plasma level of CA15-3 and CEA were measured serially in consecutive series
of
74
patients with breast carcinoma. Relationships between tumor marker levels and clinical parameters or sites of recurrent disease were evaluated. Plasma levels of CA15-3 and CEA elevated in only a small proportion of patients at initial
presentation
of
breast carcinoma (CA15-13: 12.1%, CEA: 18.9%). Serum levels of tumor marker correlated with disease stage, but did not show any relationship with other clinical parameters. Serum levels of tumor marker elevated in significant proportion of
patients
with
distant metastasis (CA15-3: 69.2%, CEA:54.3%). Serial measurements of plasma CA5-3 and CEA levels are a cost-effective method to detect recurrent disease of breast carcinoma in early stage. In conclusion, CA15-3 and CEA have a role as a guidance
tool
for recommending further diaghostic work-up, though they cannot replace the conventional imaging studies.
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