CA 125 (Cancer Antigen 125) Test for Ovarian Cancer

CA 125 Test or Cancer Antigen 125 Test is a blood test that helps diagnose ovarian cancer. CA 125 Test measures the amount of a protein called CA 125 (cancer antigen 125) in a sample of your blood. CA 125 is a type of tumor marker. High levels of certain tumor markers in your blood may be a sign of cancer.

CA 125 Test

Here are the basic details for CA 125 Test.

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

CA 125 Test Full Form

The Full Form of CA 125 Test is Cancer Antigen 125 Test.

CA 125 Test Means

The CA 125 test measures the levels of a protein called CA 125 in the blood.

• CA 125 is primarily used as a tumor marker for ovarian cancer.
• Elevated CA 125 levels may indicate the presence of ovarian cancer, although it can also be elevated in other conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease.
• The CA 125 test is often used for monitoring ovarian cancer treatment, assessing response to therapy, and detecting cancer recurrence.
• It is not a definitive diagnostic test for ovarian cancer and should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and imaging tests.
• CA 125 levels can be normal in some individuals with early-stage ovarian cancer or elevated in those without cancer, limiting its specificity.
• Serial CA 125 measurements over time are often more informative than a single measurement.
• The test may also be used in certain cases of non-ovarian cancers, such as endometrial and fallopian tube cancers, to monitor disease progression and treatment response.

CA 125 Test Purpose

Here are the purposes of the CA 125 test.

• The CA 125 test is used as a tumor marker for ovarian cancer.
• It helps in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer, especially in combination with other diagnostic tests and imaging studies.
• The test is used to monitor the progression of ovarian cancer and assess treatment response.
• It aids in the detection of cancer recurrence in individuals previously diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
• The CA 125 test may also be used in the evaluation of other gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids, although elevated levels can be found in non-cancerous conditions as well.
• Serial CA 125 measurements are often used to track changes in levels over time, providing valuable information about disease progression or response to treatment.
• The test may be utilized in certain cases of non-ovarian cancers, such as endometrial and fallopian tube cancers, to monitor treatment effectiveness.
• Additionally, the CA 125 test can assist in determining the need for further diagnostic procedures or interventions.

CA 125 Test Preparation

Here's a breakdown of the CA 125 test preparation covering the before, during, and after the test:

Before Test

• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are currently taking.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding fasting or dietary restrictions before the test.
• Discuss any relevant medical conditions or recent surgeries with your healthcare provider.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your arm for a blood draw.

During Test

• A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle.
• You may experience a brief prick or stinging sensation during the blood draw.
• The process usually takes a few minutes to complete.

After Test

• Apply pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball or gauze to stop any bleeding.
• If there is minor bruising or discomfort, you can apply a cold compress to the area.
• Follow any post-test instructions given by your healthcare provider.
• Resume your normal activities, including any medications or dietary routines unless otherwise instructed.
• Your blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the results will be shared with you by your healthcare provider during a follow-up appointment.

CA 125 Test  Procedure

Here's a concise overview of the CA 125 test procedure.

• No specific preparation is typically required for the CA 125 test.
• A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle.
• The blood sample will be collected in a tube or vial.
• The sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis to measure the levels of CA 125 protein.
• Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and interpret them in the context of your medical history and symptoms.

CA 125 Test Result

• CA 125 levels can vary among individuals, and the interpretation should always be done by a healthcare professional who considers the patient's specific circumstances.
• It's important to consult with a doctor for personalized guidance and interpretation of CA 125 test results.

CA 125 Test Report

CA 125 Test Report PDF

CA 125 Test Normal Report

CA 125 Normal Test Report PDF Format

CA 125 Test Normal Result Report PDF

CA 125 Test Abnormal Report

CA 125 Abnormal Test Report PDF Format

CA 125 Test Abnormal Result Report PDF

CA 125 Test Normal Range

Here is the CA-125 test normal range values are given.

CA 125 Test Interpretation

Here's an example of a CA 125 test interpretation:

CA 125 Test High Levels

Here are examples of CA 125 Test high levels causes.

CA 125 Test Low Levels

Here are examples of CA 125 Test low levels causes.

Specimen Requirements For CA 125 Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the CA 125 Test.

CA 125 Test is Safe?

The CA 125 test is generally considered safe and widely used in medical practice.

• It involves a routine blood draw, which is a common and well-established procedure.
• The risk of complications from the CA 125 test is minimal.
• Some individuals may experience minor discomforts, such as a brief needle prick and possible bruising or soreness at the puncture site.
• Serious adverse reactions or complications associated with the CA 125 test are extremely rare.

When Do You Get CA 125 Test Results?

The turnaround time for CA 125 test results can vary from 8 to 24 hours or depending on the laboratory where the test is conducted.

• In many cases, you can expect to receive the results within a few days to a week.
• However, it's important to note that the specific timeframe may depend on various factors, including the laboratory's workload and the location where the test is performed.

CA 125 Test Limitation

Here are some possible limitations of the CA 125 Test.

• Limited specificity for detecting ovarian cancer.
• Can be elevated in non-cancerous conditions.
• Not suitable for early detection of ovarian cancer.
• Levels may vary in different stages of ovarian cancer.
• Not a definitive diagnostic test for ovarian cancer.

CA 125 Test Risk Factors

Here is the potential risk factor of the CA 125 Test.

• Limited by false positives and false negatives.
• Inaccuracy in premenopausal women and individuals with endometriosis.
• May not detect early-stage or non-epithelial ovarian cancers.
• Risk of misinterpretation and overdiagnosis.

Doctor Recommendations After CA 125 Test Result

Here are Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after CA 125 Test.

CA 125 Test Price

Here are the estimated CA 125 Test Prices in India with top different cities:

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, CA 125 Test is commonly used blood test to measure CA 125 levels, primarily for the evaluation of ovarian cancer, but interpretation should consider other clinical factors and it may also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• CA 125 Test - Wikidoc [1].
• What is CA 125? Questions About Ovarian Cancer Screening - OCRA [2].