CA 125 Blood Work Lab Test

CA 125 is a blood test that measures the level of a protein called cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) in your blood. Here are some reasons why you might consider getting a CA 125 test:

Monitor ovarian cancer: CA 125 is a tumor marker that is often elevated in women with ovarian cancer. A CA 125 test can be used to monitor ovarian cancer, track the effectiveness of treatment, and detect recurrence.

Diagnose other medical conditions: Elevated CA 125 levels can also be a sign of other medical conditions, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or certain types of cancer, including breast, lung, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer. A CA 125 test may be used to help diagnose or monitor these conditions.

Screen for ovarian cancer: While a CA 125 test is not recommended as a routine screening test for ovarian cancer, it may be used in certain situations, such as in women with a strong family history of ovarian cancer or in those who have a mass in the ovary.

Overall, a CA 125 test can provide important information about your risk of ovarian cancer, help diagnose or monitor certain medical conditions, and track the effectiveness of treatment. However, it’s important to remember that an elevated CA 125 level does not always mean that you have cancer, and a normal level does not necessarily rule out the presence of cancer. A CA 125 test should always be interpreted in the context of other medical information and testing.