Geri

CA 125 is the primary tumor marker for ovarian cancer and its metastases.

This marker is most commonly used for monitoring ovarian cancer. However, CA 125 levels can also rise in some benign conditions, such as:

  • Pregnancy
  • Menstruation
  • Inflammation of the peritoneum (peritonitis) or pleura (pleuritis)
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Endometriosis

At Stage I of ovarian cancer, CA 125 levels remain nearly unchanged. However, levels increase significantly in Stages II, III, and IV.

During remission, CA 125 levels decrease and approach zero.
If CA 125 levels rise during treatment, it indicates tumor progression and poor response to therapy.

  • Sample: Blood drawn from a vein.
  • Fasting for at least 4 hours before the test is required.
  • Monitoring disease progression
  • Evaluating treatment effectiveness for ovarian cancer
  • Detecting metastases before clinical symptoms appear

Causes of Increased CA 125 Levels

Oncological Conditions (Cancer-Related CA 125 Elevation):

  • Ovarian cancer (80% of cases)
  • Cervical cancer
  • Endometrial cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Liver cancer

Non-Cancerous Conditions (Benign CA 125 Elevation):

  • Inflammatory diseases of the reproductive organs
  • Peritonitis, pleuritis
  • Chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, chronic pancreatitis
  • Autoimmune diseases