Ulta Lab Tests

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer screening aims to find disease early—before symptoms—so treatment can begin sooner. For most people at average risk, mammography is the primary screening tool; major guidelines recommend regular screening starting at age 40, typically every other year (USPSTF), with the American Cancer Society allowing annual screening starting at 45 and the option to start at 40. High-risk patients may also need breast MRI alongside mammograms. Labs play a supporting role: they can help with genetic risk assessment (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2 and multigene panels) and monitoring known cancer, but routine blood tests are not used to screen average-risk people for breast cancer.

Signs & Symptoms (When to consider testing)

Screening is recommended even without symptoms, but contact your clinician promptly if you notice:

  • A new lump, thickening, or focal area that feels different from surrounding tissue

  • Change in size/shape, skin dimpling, redness, flaking, or nipple inversion/discharge (not breast milk)

  • Underarm lump or persistent swelling/pain without clear cause

  • Family history of breast, ovarian, tubal, or peritoneal cancer—especially at younger ages—or known BRCA/other pathogenic variants (these may prompt genetic counseling/testing) 

Related searches: breast cancer screening tests, mammogram vs MRI, BRCA testing, breast cancer blood test, CA 15-3, CA 27.29, CEA, dense breasts.

Why These Tests Matter

What breast-cancer-related tests can do

  • Find cancer early: Mammography lowers deaths from breast cancer; start regular screening at age 40 for average-risk patients (intervals vary by guideline). MRI can be added for those at high risk. 

  • Assess inherited risk: BRCA1/2 (and other genes) testing is recommended after risk assessment and counselingfor people with suggestive personal/family history or ancestry. 

  • Monitor known disease: Certain tumor markers (e.g., CA 15-3, CEA) may help follow metastatic disease or treatment response—but they are not recommended for screening or routine surveillance of asymptomatic survivors. 

What they cannot do

  • Blood tests do not replace mammography for average-risk screening.

  • No single lab test diagnoses breast cancer; abnormal results require imaging and often biopsy. 

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Imaging (ordered by your clinician):

    • Mammogram (2D/3D) — primary screening test.

    • Breast MRI — adjunct for high-risk patients (e.g., BRCA carriers, strong family history). 

  • Genetic Risk (blood/saliva):

    • BRCA1/BRCA2 ± multigene panels after risk assessment & counseling. Results inform screening intensity and family planning. 

  • Tumor Markers (blood; not for screening):

    • CA 15-3 / CA 27.29 / CEA — sometimes used to monitor known metastatic breast cancer; not advised for routine screening or asymptomatic follow-up. 

  • Contextual Labs (as directed): CBC, CMP, vitamin D, thyroid and other tests to evaluate overall health during/after treatment (not screening tools).

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Order online: choose genetic risk testing if your history suggests it, or monitoring labs if you’re under active oncology care.

  2. Visit a nearby lab: quick blood draw (or saliva for genetics).

  3. Get results fast: most post within 24–48 hours (genetics may take longer).

  4. Review with your clinician: labs complement imaging (mammogram ± MRI) and exam.

For routine screening, schedule mammography through your imaging provider; lab tests do not replace imaging. 

Interpreting Results (general guidance)

  • Genetic testing (BRCA or multigene): a pathogenic variant indicates higher lifetime risk and usually prompts enhanced imaging and family counseling; a negative result doesn’t eliminate risk if family history is strong—keep screening. 

  • Tumor markers: small rises can occur for reasons unrelated to cancer; oncology teams treat trends and clinical context—these tests are not for average-risk screening. 

  • Normal labs do not guarantee the absence of cancer; mammography remains the key screening test. 

All results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Average-risk screening: book mammography at the intervals recommended by your clinician (e.g., biennial starting at 40 per USPSTF; annual 45–54 with option at 40 per ACS). Labs are not screening tools. 

  • High-risk history (early cancers in family, known mutation, certain ancestries): consider BRCA/multigene testing after counseling; imaging may include annual MRI plus mammogram.

  • Active/treated breast cancer: your oncology team may order tumor markers selectively to monitor disease—not to screen.

FAQs

What’s the best test to screen for breast cancer?
For most people at average risk, mammography is the standard screening test beginning at age 40 (intervals vary by guideline). 

If I’m high-risk, do I need more than a mammogram?
Often yes. MRI is commonly added for high-risk groups (e.g., BRCA carriers or strong family history) alongside mammograms. Your clinician can personalize a plan. 

Is there a blood test to screen for breast cancer?
No routine blood test is recommended to screen average-risk people. Tumor markers like CA 15-3 or CEA are not for screening and are generally reserved for monitoring known disease. 

Who should get BRCA testing?
People with a personal/family history suggestive of a hereditary syndrome or certain ancestries should be assessed with a brief risk tool; if positive, genetic counseling and testing may follow. 

How do different screening guidelines compare?
USPSTF: biennial mammography 40–74. ACS: option to start at 40, annual 45–54, then every 2 years (or continue yearly) at 55+. Discuss the schedule that fits your risk and preferences. 

Internal Links & Cross-References

  • Cancer Screening Hub

  • Ovarian Cancer

  • Colorectal Cancer

  • Lung Cancer

  • Key Lab Tests: BRCA1/2 (and Multigene) Testing • CA 15-3 • CA 27.29 • CEA • CBC/CMP (treatment context)

Available Tests & Panels

Tip: Use genetic risk testing after risk assessment & counseling when family/personal history suggests a hereditary syndrome; reserve tumor markers for oncologist-directed monitoring, not screening. 

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The CA 15-3 Test measures cancer antigen 15-3 levels in blood, often used to monitor breast cancer treatment and progression. Elevated levels may suggest advanced breast cancer, metastasis, or recurrence, while non-cancer conditions can also affect results. Doctors order this test alongside imaging and other labs to track therapy response or detect changes in disease status. Results help guide ongoing management of breast cancer and patient care.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CA 15-3 Tumor Marker, Cancer Antigen 15-3 Test, CA-Breast Test, Cancer Antigen-Breast Test
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The CA 27.29 Test measures cancer antigen 27.29 levels in blood to help monitor breast cancer treatment, progression, or recurrence. Elevated levels may indicate advanced or metastatic breast cancer, though non-cancer conditions can also affect results. Doctors order this test alongside imaging or other tumor markers to track therapy response. Results provide valuable insight for ongoing breast cancer management and long-term patient care.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CA 27.29 Tumor Marker, Cancer Antigen 27.29 Test
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The CEA Test measures carcinoembryonic antigen levels in blood, a protein that may be elevated in certain cancers, especially colorectal, pancreatic, lung, breast, or ovarian cancer. It is not used alone for diagnosis but helps monitor cancer treatment, detect recurrence, and track disease progression. Elevated CEA can also occur in noncancerous conditions. Doctors use this test to support therapy decisions and provide insight into cancer management.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Carcinoembryonic Antigen Test
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The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Test measures 21 markers to assess metabolic health, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total protein, bilirubin, ALP, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, BUN/creatinine ratio, and eGFR. The CMP helps detect diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and supports routine screening and chronic condition monitoring.

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Also Known As: CMP Test, Chemistry Panel Test, Chem Test, Chem 21 Test, Chem 14 Test 
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The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

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Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test
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The Galectin-3 Test measures levels of galectin-3, a biomarker linked to heart failure, cardiac fibrosis, and inflammation. Elevated results may indicate worsening heart disease, increased risk of hospitalization, or progression of chronic conditions. Doctors use this blood test to assess heart health, guide treatment decisions, and monitor patients with heart failure, offering valuable insight into long-term cardiovascular risk and management.

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The Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 Test evaluates PAI-1 activity, a key regulator of fibrinolysis that influences clot breakdown and vascular health. Elevated levels may suggest risk for thrombosis, heart disease, or metabolic disorders. This test supports assessment of coagulation balance, cardiovascular function, and systemic conditions that affect circulation and overall metabolic health.

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Also Known As: PAI-1 Test
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The Prolactin Test measures prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, to assess reproductive and endocrine health. High prolactin (hyperprolactinemia) may cause infertility, irregular periods, or milk production in women and low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, or infertility in men. Doctors use this test to evaluate pituitary tumors, hormonal imbalance, or unexplained symptoms such as headaches, vision changes, or abnormal lactation.

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Also Known As: PRL Test
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Breast Cancer: Risk Factors / Causes / Signs & Lab Tests

If you're reading this article as an American woman, we have a sobering statistic to share with you. Your chances of developing breast cancer at some point in your life stand at 1 in 8.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer American women are likely to develop. This highlights the utmost importance of breast cancer tests. They can screen, diagnose, and monitor breast cancer.

What's the gold standard of breast cancer screening? What are the best lab tests to use? Let's take a look at what's available.

Lab Tests for Breast Cancer

Lab tests for breast cancer identify levels of different substances in the blood. In detecting breast cancer, the three following tests are significant:

CA 15-3

Cancer antigen 15-3 is always naturally present in the blood. However, if levels are increased, this can show the presence of cancer. It is also helpful in monitoring breast cancer after treatment.

CA 27.29

Cancer antigen 27.29 is a tumor marker. Levels of this antigen can predict the likelihood of breast cancer recurring in women who have had treatment.

BRCAvantage™, Comprehensive

BRCAvantage™, Comprehensive is a proprietary test that can identify gene markers in women who have an increased risk of breast cancer. A positive result does not mean that you have cancer. It may mean that you are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. 

The Importance of Lab Tests

Breast cancer is usually diagnosed after a patient undergoes a mammogram. A patient may report breast pain or notice a lump, and a doctor may order a mammogram. At other times, a routine screening mammogram may show that further tests are needed.

Lab tests are vital in breast cancer detection. They are the only way to diagnose breast cancer accurately. A biopsy removes a sample of breast tissue for testing. If there are cancer cells present, it will show the type of cancer and the rate of growth. 

There are common types of breast cancer lab tests that your doctor will order. They are the hormone receptor test and the HER2/neu test. These tests can help to show which treatment options are most suitable for you.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when cancer forms in breast tissue. Although men can also develop breast cancer, it's far more common in women. The cancer cells divide rapidly and form a lump or mass in the breast.

A breast cancer diagnosis will also include further tests. These will check whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Most commonly, secondary tumor cells are found in the lymph nodes. 

It's true that breast cancer is common, but early diagnosis and treatment lead to a 99% survival rate at five years after diagnosis.

If you notice any changes in your breasts, not just lumps, it's important to go for breast cancer tests. Routine breast cancer screening can detect the disease before you have any symptoms. 

Risk Factors and Causes of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer occurs due to a number of factors. Some of the risk factors include a person's genetics. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer. 

Additionally, there are other risk factors, including:

  • being female
  • age
  • family history of breast cancer
  • exposure to radiation
  • obesity
  • sedentary lifestyle
  • drinking alcohol
  • using tobacco
  • starting period before the age of 12
  • starting menopause late
  • never having been pregnant
  • hormone replacement therapy

It's clear from this list that it's impossible to avoid many of the risk factors of breast cancer. That's why breast cancer screening is so important.

Women over the age of 40 should discuss when to start breast cancer screening with their doctor. Women between 50-74 who are at average risk should get tested every two years. 

There are some risk factors in our control. Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco will also help to reduce your risk. 

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

The first signs women notice are usually changes in their breast or breasts. This could include:

  • feeling a lump or thickening
  • change in size, shape, or appearance
  • skin changes
  • nipple becomes inverted
  • changes to the areola (pigmented skin around the nipple)
  • redness or pitting of skin on the breast

If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately contact your doctor.

There are also other symptoms of breast cancer to be aware of. Symptoms include swelling in your arm, under your armpit, or around the collar bone. Talk to your doctor if you notice any of these. 

With early-stage breast cancer, you may not be in pain. Lumps are often not painful. You may be suffering from tiredness, unexplained weight loss, or appetite loss.

Frequently Asked Questions about Breast Cancer and Lab Testing for Breast Cancer

Anyone with a diagnosis of breast cancer wants the best possible treatment. Breast cancer lab tests are a crucial part of ongoing breast cancer monitoring and treatment.

Some of the most frequently asked questions about breast cancer and breast cancer lab tests include:

  • What is the stage of my breast cancer?
  • What treatment options are available?
  • Has cancer spread to other parts of my body?
  • What are the side effects of cancer treatment?
  • Can lab test help to monitor my cancer?
  • When should I start screening for breast cancer?

Your doctor and specialist cancer doctor will be able to discuss these and other questions you may have with you. Lab tests are an important part of the decision-making in the early stages of treating the disease.

Breast cancer lab tests help doctors to identify certain tumor markers in the blood. This can help them to see whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Lab tests can also show whether the cancer is responding to treatment. They can also show whether cancer has come back. 

Having breast cancer lab tests is just the first step. To understand the tests, it's vital to review them with your doctor. They will recommend the next steps to get you on the road to recovery.

Time to Order Your Breast Cancer Tests

If breast cancer tests have shown that you have breast cancer, further help is at hand. Breast cancer lab tests are vital for doctors to ensure that you get the best treatment. They will help your doctors to monitor and treat you long-term.


What are the benefits of breast cancer lab tests from Ulta Lab Tests? Ulta Lab Tests offers tests that are highly accurate and reliable so that you can make informed decisions about your health.

  • Secure and Confidential Results
  • No Insurance or Referral Needed
  • Affordable Pricing including Doctor's Order
  • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Order your breast cancer lab test today. Your results will be provided to you securely and confidentially online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests.

Take charge of your health and track your progress with Ulta Lab Tests.