What is the purpose of this test?
The Cancer Antigen (CA) 125 Serum Test measures the level of CA 125, a protein found in the blood, which is often higher in women with certain types of cancer, especially ovarian cancer. Doctors use this test to help detect ovarian cancer in women who show symptoms or have a high risk of the disease. It is not used alone for diagnosing cancer but can be a helpful tool when combined with other tests and examinations. Elevated CA 125 levels may indicate the presence of cancer, but high levels can also occur due to non-cancerous conditions like endometriosis, menstruation, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
In addition to detecting ovarian cancer, the CA 125 test is used to monitor treatment effectiveness and check for cancer recurrence in patients who have already been diagnosed. After surgery or chemotherapy for ovarian cancer, a decrease in CA 125 levels might suggest that the treatment is working. Regular testing can also help doctors spot if the cancer returns, even before symptoms appear. By tracking CA 125 levels, doctors can make more informed decisions about a patient’s care and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Who should get this test?
The Cancer Antigen (CA) 125 Serum Test would be beneficial to:
- Women with symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as abdominal pain, bloating, or frequent urination, to help diagnose the condition.
- Women with a family history of ovarian cancer or other risk factors, to screen for early signs of the disease.
- Patients undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer, to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and see how the cancer is responding.
- Patients who have been treated for ovarian cancer, to check for recurrence of the disease.
- Women with other types of cancer or conditions where CA 125 levels might be elevated, to provide additional information for diagnosis or treatment planning.
- Patients with unexplained pelvic or abdominal symptoms, where further investigation is needed to rule out or confirm ovarian cancer.
When should I order a Cancer Antigen (CA) 125 Serum Test?
You should consider ordering a Cancer Antigen (CA) 125 Serum Test if you have experienced the following symptoms:
- Persistent abdominal or pelvic pain
- Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- Frequent urination or changes in urination patterns
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in menstrual cycle or vaginal bleeding
LC Sample ReportQD Sample Report
Test Code(s):
002303, 29256
Also Known As:
Cancer Antigen or CA125, Serum Test; OC125, Cancer Antigen 125, Ovarian Antigen CA-125, Second Generation Assay, Glycoprotein Antigen
Preparation:
No fasting is required. Stop biotin at least 72 hours before collection. For the CA-125 test, collect at least 3 weeks after primary chemotherapy and 2 months after abdominal surgery.
Test Results:
1-2 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
