CEA, PSA and Other Biomarkers in Nipple Fluid for Early Cancer Detection
Abstract
We proposed to develop nipple fluid-based test(s) for early breast cancer detection. These non-invasive breast nipple fluid studies could complement mammography, particularly for women under age 50. Our studies in breast nipple fluid have examined 2 tumor biomarkers, carcinoembryonic antigen and prostate-specific antigen (CEA and PSA). In clinically cancer-free women, CEA titers vary widely in 281 breast nipple fluid samples. The median CEA is 1,057 ng/ml, which is more than 200-fold higher than normal CEA serum levels. Likewise, PSA median level in nipple fluids is 49 ng/ml, when serum PSA is virtually 0 in women. High CEA and PSA levels in nipple fluid were new and unexpected findings. Our IDEA study was to determine whether CPA and PSA levels are biomarkers for breast cancer. Nipple fluid CPA and PSA titers from 45 women with untreated breast cancer and 60 with DCIS, LCIS or ADH were compared with titers for the 281 cancer-free women. CEAs in fluids from cancerous breast are significantly higher than CPA levels in normal breasts (p < 0.0 1). No differences were found between CEAs in precancerous breasts and normal breasts. PSA levels were comparable in all 3 subgroups. Studies are needed to identify other biomarkers in NAFs with high positive predictive values for cancer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA374023
Entities
People
- Frederick P. Li
Organizations
- Dana–Farber Cancer Institute