Serum miR-155, miR-21, and CA 15.3 for diagnosis and monitoring therapy of breast cancer in females

Abstract

Background and Aim Carbohydrate antigen 15.3 (CA 15.3) is the most frequently used tumor marker in breast cancer (BC). MicroRNAs (miRs) can be used to screen, diagnose, evaluate, and follow-up on some cancers. Our research aimed to explore the value of circulating miR-155 and miR-21 for diagnosis and monitoring therapy of BC compared with CA 15.3. Patients and Methods Our study included four groups: 25 women who were completely healthy, 20 women suffering from benign breast diseases, 20 patients suffering from BC after complete therapy, and 25 patients with BC before undergoing any therapy. CA 15.3, MiR-155, and miR-21 were measured for all participants. Results MiR-155, miR-21, and CA 15.3 levels in the four groups showed significant differences. MiR-21 is the most sensitive, followed by miR-155 and CA 15.3. Conclusion Serum miR-155 and Serum miR-21 could be useful tests like CA 15.3 for differentiation between women suffering from BC, women suffering from benign breast diseases, and completely healthy women.