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Healthcare providers can use a CA-125 blood test as a component of an overall strategy to monitor ovarian cancer therapy.
CA125 (Cancer Antigen 125)
Cancer Antigen 125
Carbohydrate Antigen 125
OV Monitor
Cancer Ag 125 (CA 125)
CA25
Table of Contents
ToggleThe CA-125 test measures the level of the protein CA-125, also known as cancer antigen 125, in your blood. CA-125 is a biomarker, indicating a substance in your blood that might signal a condition or disease. A high CA-125 level can suggest ovarian cancer, considering that the ovaries, responsible for egg storage, and hormone production, are involved.
However, the CA-125 test can yield both false positives and false negatives. Elevated CA-125 levels may not always indicate cancer (false positive), and normal levels may not rule out cancer (false negative). Therefore, the CA 125 test isn’t an effective standalone screening method for ovarian cancer.
Healthcare providers typically incorporate the CA 125 test into a broader monitoring strategy for certain cancers, especially during and after cancer treatment. It’s also employed for early detection in individuals at high risk, such as those with a family history of ovarian cancer or a genetic predisposition. However, for those without symptoms or risk factors, the CA-125 test isn’t considered useful.
A CA-125 blood test can serve the following purposes:
Your healthcare provider should interpret your results as acceptable ranges can vary, and different labs may use different tests. Typically, levels exceeding 35 units per milliliter are considered irregular. However, it’s important to note that elevated levels don’t necessarily indicate cancer or a cancer recurrence. To understand the implications of your results and assess whether additional testing is necessary, it’s crucial to have a discussion with your healthcare provider.
Various conditions other than ovarian cancer can result in a “positive” CA-125 test score. These include:
Due to the potential for elevated CA 125 levels in these conditions, a CA 125 test is not used as a standalone diagnostic tool. Instead, it is employed in conjunction with other diagnostic methods to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the individual’s health and potential presence of ovarian cancer.
References
Dr. Nishtha, a medical doctor holding both an MBBS and an MD in Biochemistry, possesses a profound passion for nutrition and wellness. Her personal journey, marked by significant struggles with physical and mental health, has endowed her with a unique empathy and insight into the challenges countless individuals face. Driven by her own experiences, she leverages her background to offer practical, evidence-backed guidance, empowering others on their paths to achieving holistic well-being. Dr. Nishtha truly believes in the interconnectedness of the mind and body. She emphasizes the significance of understanding this connection as a crucial stride toward attaining balance and happiness in life.