CA 125 - Carbohydrate, Carcinoma Antigen (Blood)

CA-125 (Carbohydrate Antigen) Is a glycoprotein found in the epithelium of the ovaries, pancreas, gallbladder, stomach, bronchi, kidneys, and intestines. Its increased level can be observed both in malignant processes of the above organs, as well as in benign tumors and inflammatory diseases. This determines the low specificity of this tumor marker.

CA 125 has diagnostic value in cases of epithelial (non-mucosal) ovarian cancer, but can not be used for population screening due to its lack of susceptibility in the early stages of the disease. Its use is recommended as a screening test in postmenopausal women, as well as in women of any age who have a family history of breast and ovarian cancer (especially in the presence of a BRCA. Mutation). Although its level may increase in other gynecological and gastrointestinal malignancies, the use of this tumor marker is not recommended for screening and diagnostics in such situations due to its low diagnostic sensitivity and specificity. It is recommended to designate CA-125 as an additional marker in pancreatic cancer (along with CA 19-9).

CA 125 level dynamics are of great importance in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment in predicting the risk of recurrence and metastasis. Its determination is informative in case of detection of a formation in the pelvic area and during monitoring of endometriosis therapy.

When should we take the test?

• Diagnosis of ovarian cancer, monitoring of treatment effectiveness, risk of recurrence and further development of metastases;
• Adenocarcinoma of the pancreas.

How to prepare for the test?

The test should be performed on an empty stomach.

Research material

Venous blood

Possible interpretation of the results

CA 125 levels increase:

Oncopathology:

• Epithelial forms of ovarian cancer;
• Cancer of the uterus, endometrium, fallopian tubes;
• Breast cancer;
• Cancer of the pancreas, stomach, liver, rectum;
• lung cancer.

Other diseases and conditions:

• Benign and inflammatory diseases of the uterus and appendages (including endometriosis);
• In the III trimester of pregnancy;
• Peritonitis, pleurisy;
• Diseases of the liver and pancreas;
• Autoimmune diseases.

Resources

https://spravochnik.synevo.ua/ru/oncologia/oncomarker-iaichnikov-ca125.html