What does the increased CA-125 mean?
If the blood test shows an increased CA-125, this may indicate a number of different things, depending on other information about the patient who will be collected during the examination. The levels of this protein in the blood are most commonly controlled in conjunction with the treatment or diagnosis of ovarian cancer and elevated levels may mean that the patient has ovarian cancer or that cancer is repeated. But false positives are happening. The CA-125 test is not intended for use as a separate diagnostic tool.
CA-125 is a protein that is produced primarily in cancer cells. It is most often associated with ovarian cancer, although other cancer can also cause increased CA-125. In addition, other malignant or benign conditions from endometriosis to the normal menstrual period may also be connected. The results of the tests are most important in women with a history of ovarian cancer or women with a high risk of cancer.
If the increased CA-125 is associated with significant clinical findings on ultrasound test, symptoms,Such as pain and abnormal bleeding, and a high risk of cancer, this may mean that a woman has ovarian cancer. In women who are treated in cancer treatment, increased results mean that cancer does not respond to treatment and it is time to discuss other treatment options.
False positives can happen for several reasons. If the patient appears to be otherwise healthy and the test shows an increased CA-125, a repeated test may be ordered. It is also possible to have false negative. Some women with ovarian cancer do not have increased CA-125, and therefore do not show any signs of cancer on the blood test. Because of the risks of false positives and negatives, it is important to combine a test with other diagnostic options.
The second generation test, CA-125II, can be preferred by some care providers. If doctors are planning to support test results as can be performed when the patient is in cancer treatment or is assessed to checkAl recurrence of cancer, uses the same type of test to avoid confusion. For example, if a patient of CA-125II tests has another second generation test so that the results can be compared fairly and accurately. Reduced results between tests mean that cancer responds to treatment or has reached remission.