Detection of breast cancer can be done, even before its symptoms become apparent. To determine whether the symptoms experienced are indeed caused by breast cancer, a thorough physical examination and laboratory tests are advisable.

Examinations for Detecting Breast Cancer:

• Physical Examination
  The patient's physical examination by a doctor involves checking the breasts and lymph nodes in the armpits to detect any lumps or other abnormal cells.
• Laboratory Tests
  ♡ CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) or Embryonic Glycoprotein Antigen examination, which is useful for detecting tumor malignancy, with a sensitivity of 70% for colorectal cancer, 60% for stomach cancer, 55% for pancreatic cancer, 50% for lung cancer, 40% for breast cancer, 30% for ovarian cancer, and uterine cancer. The normal serum CEA level ranges from 0 - 5 U/ml.
  ♡ CA 15-3 examination, as an indicator for diagnosing breast cancer, post-operative monitoring, and metastasis detection. This serum test is 60% sensitive for early-stage breast cancer and 80% for advanced-stage or metastatic breast cancer.
• Non-Laboratory Tests
  ♧ Mammography Routine mammography is important for detecting early signs of breast cancer. Mammography is an imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to detect and diagnose breast cancer early.
  ♧ Breast Ultrasound (USG) Ultrasound (USG) is performed to examine the condition of the breasts using high-frequency sound waves. This examination helps determine whether breast lumps are solid masses or fluid-filled cysts.
  ♧ Biopsy Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) or fine needle biopsy is a method of taking tissue samples from the breast for further examination to detect the presence of cancer cells.

PREPARATION AND REQUIRED TESTING MATERIALS

• There is no specific preparation required for patients before specimen collection.
• The testing material used is blood from a vein.

For more information, please contact the nearest PRAMITA Clinical Laboratory branch in your city.

Author: Dr. Bernarita Akpri Anggraini (Medical Consultant at PRAMITA Clinical Laboratory, Mt. Haryono Street No. 5-7, Balikpapan)