CA 125 (ovary)

The CA 125 (ovary) analysis is a blood test used to detect the CA 125 protein, a marker that may indicate the presence of ovarian cancer. Although elevated CA 125 levels can suggest other conditions, this analysis is a key tool in detecting potential ovarian issues. This test is available as part of the blood tumor markers analyses, and the private laboratory IntroLab in Belgrade is here to guide you through it.

What is CA 125?

CA 125 is a tumor marker specific to antigens, often expressed in epithelial ovarian tumors and other types of tissue, such as those making up the endometrium, fallopian tubes, pleura, peritoneum, and pericardium. The proposal to use this tumor marker for identifying epithelial ovarian cancer first appeared in 1983. It was isolated through the use of the monoclonal antibody OC 125, which was created by immunizing mice exposed to ovarian epithelial cancer cell lines. Nearly two decades later, in 2001, the genomic sequence of this antigen was discovered and named MUC16.

What symptoms may indicate ovarian cancer?

Unfortunately, the symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague, often complicating early detection. Some symptoms associated with this type of cancer include:

• Pelvic pain or discomfort
• Bloating, feeling of fullness, or stomach swelling
• Digestive issues, feelings of nausea, and loss of appetite
• Chronic fatigue

Blood analysis is just one of the methods that can be used for diagnosis. If you exhibit symptoms causing concern, your doctor will first take your medical history and perform a physical examination. Afterward, they may request an ultrasound or CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis to look for possible signs of tumors, as well as a CA 125 blood test.

When is CA 125 (ovary) tumor marker analysis needed?

Individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer should be tested every six months. Testing is also recommended to differentiate benign from malignant formations in women who have pelvic masses. Experience shows it is beneficial to conduct a CA 125 test before a woman starts therapy for ovarian cancer, as the values obtained will serve as a reference point for later comparisons. On the other hand, it is advised that the CA 125 tumor marker not be used for screening in the general asymptomatic population.

Interpreting results

CA 125 levels are typically significantly elevated in advanced ovarian cancer, which can be crucial for disease prognosis. If, after surgical intervention and three cycles of chemotherapy, the levels decrease and fall within reference values, it is considered that the patient has a significantly better chance of combating the disease. Generally speaking, reference values differ from laboratory to laboratory. However, a CA 125 tumor marker serum concentration higher than 35 U/ml is typically considered elevated, as usual physiological values range from 0 to 35 U/ml.

If CA 125 values decrease during therapy, it usually indicates that the therapy is effective. If the values rise or remain unchanged, it may mean that the therapy is not helping. At the same time, in some women diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the CA 125 test may show normal values. In their case, this test cannot be used to monitor the course of the disease or recovery, given that their type of cancer does not produce antigen 125.

CA 125 tumor marker price

The price of tumor marker analysis, specifically CA 125 (ovary), in our laboratory is competitive and affordable, priced at 1300,00 RSD. The analysis will be performed by highly skilled laboratory technicians. They will conduct the blood draw in a fast and painless manner.