Description
Why It’s Done
1. Monitor Ovarian Cancer
• To track how well treatment is working.
• To check for cancer recurrence after treatment.
2. Aid in Diagnosis
• Helps support the diagnosis of ovarian cancer when symptoms or imaging tests suggest its presence.
3. Evaluate Other Conditions
• CA 125 levels can be elevated in benign conditions such as:
o Endometriosis
o Menstruation
o Pregnancy
o Pelvic inflammatory disease
o Liver disease
• Also elevated in some other cancers like endometrial, peritoneal, and fallopian tube cancers.
4. Screen High-Risk Individuals (With Caution)
• Sometimes used for screening in women with a family history of ovarian cancer, although it is not a definitive screening tool.
Preparation
1. Fasting
• No fasting required.
2. Medications
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as some may affect results.
3. Timing
• Levels can vary with the menstrual cycle; inform your doctor about your cycle phase if relevant.
4. Sample Collection
• A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm
