CA 125 Ovarian Cancer Marker

• Test Name: CA 125 Ovarian Cancer Marker Test
• Test Type: Tumor marker test
• Specimen Required: Blood sample (serum)
• Methodology: Immunoassay (e.g., enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA))
• Purpose: Measures the level of CA 125, a protein often found in higher concentrations in the blood of patients with ovarian cancer.

• Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis: Assists in the detection and diagnosis of ovarian cancer by measuring CA 125 levels, which may be elevated in the presence of the disease.
• Monitoring Treatment: Used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment in patients with diagnosed ovarian cancer, by tracking changes in CA 125 levels over time.
• Recurrence Detection: Helps in early detection of ovarian cancer recurrence in patients previously treated for the condition.
• Differential Diagnosis: Helps differentiate ovarian cancer from other conditions that may cause pelvic masses or similar symptoms.

• Components:
  • Blood collection from a vein.
  • Analysis of the serum using an immunoassay to determine CA 125 concentration.
  • Calibration with standard controls to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the test.
  • Reporting of CA 125 levels in units per millilitre (U/mL)
     
• Procedure:
  • A blood sample is drawn from the patient and processed to obtain serum.
  • The serum is analyzed using an immunoassay technique to quantify CA 125 levels.
  • Results are compared against reference ranges and provided in a detailed report.

• Normal Findings: CA 125 levels are within the normal reference range, suggesting a lower likelihood of ovarian cancer.
• Elevated Levels: Higher CA 125 levels may indicate ovarian cancer or other conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or liver disease. Further diagnostic evaluation may be necessary.
• Clinical Correlation: Elevated CA 125 levels should be interpreted in conjunction with imaging studies and clinical symptoms to accurately diagnose or monitor ovarian cancer.
• False Positives/Negatives: CA 125 levels can be elevated in non-cancerous conditions, and not all ovarian cancers cause elevated CA 125 levels. Therefore, results must be interpreted carefully.

• Qualitative and Quantitative: Provides a quantitative measurement of CA 125 levels in the serum.
• Interpretation: Results are interpreted based on established reference ranges and the patient’s clinical context.
• Report: A detailed report includes the measured CA 125 level and its clinical significance, with guidance for further action if necessary.
• Turnaround Time: Typically 1-2 days, depending on the laboratory.

Q. What is the CA 125 Ovarian Cancer Marker Test?
The CA 125 test measures the level of the CA 125 protein in your blood, which can be elevated in ovarian cancer and other conditions
 

Q. Why is the CA 125 test used?
It is used to help diagnose ovarian cancer, monitor treatment effectiveness, and detect cancer recurrence
 

Q. Can the CA 125 test diagnose ovarian cancer on its own?
No, the CA 125 test is not used alone to diagnose ovarian cancer. It is typically combined with imaging tests and a clinical evaluation
 

Q. What do elevated CA 125 levels mean?
Elevated levels may indicate ovarian cancer, but they can also be caused by other conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or even normal menstruation
 

Q. Is the CA 125 test used for screening?
The CA 125 test is not generally used for screening in women without symptoms due to the potential for false positives and false negatives
 

Q. How should I prepare for the CA 125 test?
No special preparation is needed. However, it’s important to inform your doctor of any existing conditions that may affect the results
 

Q. How long does it take to get the results of the CA 125 test?
Results are typically available within 1-2 days after the blood sample is collected