CA 15-3
CPT Code: 86300
Order Code: 5819
ABN Requirement: No
Synonyms: Breast Cancer Antibody; Cancer Antigen 15-3
Specimen: Serum
Container: Gel-barrier tube (SST, Tiger Top)
Volume: 1.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection:
- Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
- Gently invert tube 10 times immediately after draw. Do not shake.
- Allow at least 30 minutes, and up to 60 minutes, from patient draw and ensure a complete clot has formed before placing the specimen in the centrifuge.
- Centrifuge sample for 15 minutes.
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): 7 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C): 28 days
Causes for rejection: Specimens other than serum; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits; gross hemolysis; gross lipemia
Methodology: Immunoassay (IA)
Turn Around Time: 2 to 3 days
Reference Range: <32 U/mL
Values obtained from different assay methods cannot be used interchangeably. CA 15-3 levels, regardless of value, should not be interpreted as absolute evidence of the presence or absence of disease.
Clinical Significance: CA 15-3 may be useful for monitoring patients with metastatic breast cancer and certain ovarian cancers. The CA 15-3 values from sequential samples have a high correlation with the clinical course in most patients with metastatic 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.