CA 125 Test

The Cancer Antigen 125 (CA-125) test measures the level of a protein called CA-125 in the blood. CA-125 is a type of tumour marker (indicator) that may be elevated in certain types of cancer, particularly ovarian cancer. The ovaries are a pair of reproductive organs in females that store and release eggs and secrete female hormones. CA-125 is produced by the cells lining the ovary and other organs, such as the fallopian tubes and uterus. High levels of CA-125 are seen in various cancers as well as other health conditions. The CA-125 test is used to screen postmenopausal women who have a high risk of developing ovarian cancer, such as those with a family history or genetic predisposition for ovarian cancer. The test is also used to evaluate individuals with symptoms suggestive of ovarian cancer. The CA-125 test is particularly useful to monitor the efficacy and progress of ovarian cancer treatment and to check for cancer recurrence after treatment. If you are someone residing and have risk factors or symptoms suspected of ovarian cancer, you may undergo a CA-125 test at home with your doctor’s recommendation to monitor your health or assess your risk.

What the 1 parameters cover

Typical reference ranges — your report marks anything outside them:

A CA-125 test is a valuable tool for various reasons related to ovarian cancer management and risk assessment. Here’s why you might need this test: Monitor Treatment Progress : If you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, CA-125 tests are done regularly during treatment to assess whether the therapy is effective. A decrease in CA-125 levels typically indicates that the treatment is working. Check for Recurrence : After completing cancer treatment, CA-125 levels may be periodically monitored, every few months or every year, to detect if the cancer has returned. Evaluate Pelvic Lumps : If a suspicious lump is found in the pelvic area during imaging tests, like an ultrasound, CA-125 levels can help determine if the lump could be ovarian cancer. Assessment of High-Risk Individuals : CA-125 levels may be checked in individuals with a significantly higher risk of ovarian cancer, such as those with: A family history of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, or colorectal cancer. Specific genetic mutations (changes in genes, including the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes). Hereditary conditions such as Lynch syndrome that increase the likelihood of many types of cancer. A history of ovarian, breast, colorectal, or uterine (uterus) cancer. Since high levels of CA-125 can show up in several other conditions, the CA-125 test is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools and tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Understanding your report

What your results can mean — always review them with your doctor:

Cancer Antigen 125 is a tumour marker for monitoring the therapy and progress of patients with serous ovarian cancer. The table below gives the normal level of CA-125 protein in the blood as well as the conditions associated with high levels: