CA-125 Test: Uses and Limitations
CA-125 is a protein that can be elevated in ovarian cancer and in some other conditions. It is used mainly to monitor known ovarian cancer and response to treatment rather than to screen the general population, because it can miss early cancers and produce false positives. Conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic infection, pregnancy, and liver disease can raise CA-125, and a normal result does not rule out cancer. Results are interpreted with imaging and clinical evaluation.
Key Takeaways
- CA-125 is a protein that can be elevated in ovarian cancer and some other conditions.
- It is mainly used to monitor known ovarian cancer rather than to screen the general population.
- Many non-cancerous conditions can raise CA-125, including endometriosis and pelvic inflammation.
- A normal result does not rule out cancer.
- Results are interpreted with imaging and clinical evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CA-125 a screening test for ovarian cancer?
It is not recommended as a routine screening test for people at average risk, because it can miss cancers and give false positives. It is used mainly for monitoring.
What else can raise CA-125?
Endometriosis, fibroids, pregnancy, pelvic infection, and liver disease can raise CA-125.
Can I order a CA-125 test directly?
It may be available through direct-access labs, but results need clinical interpretation.
Do I need to fast for CA-125?
Fasting is usually not required.
Sources
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