Blood tests do not detect breast cancer. Breast cancer is a condition in which breast cells begin to divide uncontrollably.
Blood tests are generally used to assess the overall health of the patient, determining their suitability for surgery and detecting abnormal cell counts. They are also employed to monitor the patient during their treatment plan, such as chemotherapy, to check for any irregular cell counts and assess their ability to undergo surgery.
For example, in chemotherapy, the bone marrow, responsible for producing blood cells, is affected, which, in turn, impacts the blood cell composition.
The blood tests used in breast cancer assessment include:
CBC (Complete Blood Count): It helps monitor the number of cells in the blood and can help detect abnormal cell counts. Blood cells comprise:
RBC (Red Blood Cells): Responsible for transporting oxygen.
WBC (White Blood Cells): Generally, white blood cells are responsible for fighting off infections.
Platelets: These cells aid in blood clotting, preventing excessive bleeding.