← Return to CA 27-29 numbers rising: Does anyone else have an issue like this?

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@elizm

@lauren03
Hi, Lauren. Welcome to the group.

One of the reasons why my oncology group does not use tumor markers is that there has been no evidence to prove that they are 100% reliable for determining the presence or absence of cancer. Apparently, there are several circumstances, such as other health issues or disease, which can contribute to raised tumor marker levels. I realize that isn't a comfort to you... all of us are super sensitive to any news which may suggest a recurrence as we've been through too much not to be anxious... but let your oncologist do his work. It's so nice that it's "someone else's job" to make those determinations! Keep up with your self-care and do not hesitate to let us know how things are going. We're in your corner with this fight.

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Replies to "@lauren03 Hi, Lauren. Welcome to the group. One of the reasons why my oncology group does..."

The first time I had BC in 2007, my tumor markers were ok. I did not pay so much attention then. I was stage 0 with no lymph node involvement. The second time I had it, my tumor markers were in the 40s. I had stage 1 invasive BC with no lymph node involvement in 2018. Lumpectomies both time. Only 2 times since then have they been in the 30s. I had a full body CT scan and nothing showed it...that was in May 2019. They seem to be fluctuating from the 30s thru the 40s this time. My oncologist tests me for them, but is not alarmed at all. I took tamoxifen the first time...this time anastrozole...which I may stop and go on tamoxifen in April. That is to keep my bones healthy. I cannot tell you not to worry because I would be too, but a friend of mine was told by her doctor that he doesn’t use them because they are not definite and only cause fear in the patient when they go up. This time around I am still concerned, but much more relaxed about it. I think going for the scans is a good thing either way. If nothing shows up then just relax. My doctor has told me that the 40s are the magic number for me. The CA 27.29 is not supposed to be used as a diagnostic in early stage breast cancers.