CA-125 blood test

Explanation

CA-125, short for cancer antigen 125, is a protein measured in blood. Doctors often use it to monitor cancer of the ovaries (ovarian cancer), and sometimes alongside other tests to investigate a suspicious finding. A raised CA-125 result does not by itself mean that someone has cancer.

What else can raise CA-125?

Menstruation, pregnancy and several non-cancer conditions can raise the level. For example, inflammation or non-cancerous growths in the reproductive organs can affect it. This is one reason CA-125 is not a reliable routine cancer screening test for people at average risk.

What does the number tell the clinician?

During treatment for ovarian cancer, changes over time can help assess the response. After treatment, a rise may prompt further checks. The trend is read alongside symptoms and other results.

A normal result does not rule out ovarian cancer. Some cancers do not produce much CA-125, especially early on. If the test was ordered to investigate symptoms or a scan finding, ask what the next step is even if the value is within range.

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