The CA 15-3 test is a blood test used to measure the levels of a protein called cancer antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3) in the blood. It is primarily used as a tumor marker for breast cancer. The test is not diagnostic on its own but can be helpful in monitoring the progression of breast cancer or detecting a recurrence. Elevated CA 15-3 levels may indicate the presence of breast cancer, but it can also be elevated in other conditions such as liver disease, lung disease, or other types of cancer. Follow-up tests and imaging studies are typically required to confirm a diagnosis.