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Tumor Markers

CA-125

A CA-125 blood test measures the level of cancer antigen 125 in your blood. CA-125 is a protein that can be elevated in ovarian cancer, but it is also commonly raised in many benign conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, menstruation, and pregnancy. This test alone cannot diagnose cancer and is not recommended as a screening test for ovarian cancer in the general population. Results should always be interpreted by a healthcare professional in context of other clinical findings.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

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Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Male Your group
kU/l
Normal < 35 High
Female Your group
kU/l
Normal < 35 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

What It Measures

This test measures the concentration of CA-125 (cancer antigen 125) in your blood. CA-125 is a glycoprotein found on the surface of many cell types, particularly ovarian epithelial cells. While it is commonly used as a tumor marker for ovarian cancer monitoring, elevated levels can be associated with a wide range of both benign and malignant conditions. It is not a standalone diagnostic tool.

Why It Matters

CA-125 monitoring is primarily used in individuals who have been diagnosed with or are being evaluated for ovarian cancer. It can help track treatment response and detect potential recurrence. However, elevated CA-125 levels may also be caused by endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, liver disease, menstruation, or pregnancy. Because of the high rate of false positives, CA-125 is not recommended as a screening test for ovarian cancer in the general population. Results should always be interpreted by a healthcare professional.

When to Test

CA-125 testing may be recommended if you are being monitored for ovarian cancer, evaluating a pelvic mass, or tracking treatment response. It may also be requested in the evaluation of endometriosis or other gynecological conditions. This test is not recommended as a routine screening tool for the general population. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Symptoms

High Levels

Elevated CA-125 levels may be associated with ovarian cancer, but can also be caused by endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, liver disease, menstruation, pregnancy, or other benign conditions. Elevated levels do not necessarily indicate cancer. Always consult a healthcare professional for proper interpretation and further evaluation.

Lifestyle Tips

Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support overall well-being: eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, avoid tobacco use, limit alcohol consumption, and attend regular health check-ups. If you have a family history of ovarian cancer or known risk factors, discuss appropriate screening with your healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a CA-125 test diagnose ovarian cancer?
No, a CA-125 test alone cannot diagnose ovarian cancer. It is one tool among many that healthcare professionals use. CA-125 levels can be elevated in many non-cancerous conditions, including endometriosis, menstruation, and pregnancy. Your healthcare professional will interpret the results alongside imaging, physical examination, and other clinical findings.
Why is CA-125 not used as a screening test for ovarian cancer?
CA-125 is not recommended for general population screening because it has a high rate of false positives. Many benign conditions can cause elevated levels, which could lead to unnecessary anxiety and invasive follow-up procedures. It is most useful for monitoring known ovarian cancer or evaluating specific clinical concerns.
What benign conditions can cause elevated CA-125 levels?
Many non-cancerous conditions can raise CA-125 levels, including endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, liver disease such as cirrhosis, menstruation, and pregnancy. This is why the test must always be interpreted in context by a healthcare professional.

Tests with related values

These panels measure values from the same category as this marker.