Mucin-like associated antigen in the blood
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
The reference values of MCA in blood serum are up to 11 IU / ml.
Mucin-like associated antigen (MCA) is an antigen present in mammary gland cells. It is a serum mucin-glycoprotein. The concentration of MCA in the serum increases with breast cancer and in 20% with benign breast diseases. ISA is used to monitor the course of breast carcinoma. At a separation point of 11 IU / ml, MCA has a specificity of 84% and a sensitivity of up to 80%, depending on the clinical stage of the tumor. When combining its definition with other markers, the sensitivity does not increase. The ISA study is used to monitor the effectiveness of surgical, chemo- and radiation treatment of breast cancer.
The content of MCA in serum is determined by:
- for monitoring of patients with breast cancer;
- diagnosis of distant metastases of breast cancer.
[