What is CA-125, Serum?

CA-125, also known as Cancer Antigen 125, is a type of protein present in the blood. The 'Serum CA-125 level' is often measured in a blood test and is commonly used in the detection and monitoring of certain types of cancer, most notably ovarian cancer.

• Indicator of Cancer: High levels of CA-125 in the blood can be an indicator of ovarian, endometrial, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer. However, it's important to note that elevated levels can also occur due to non-cancerous conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and liver disease.
• Cancer Monitoring: CA-125 levels are often monitored throughout cancer treatment to evaluate its effectiveness. If levels decrease, it's typically a sign that the treatment is working.
• Not a Standalone Test: A CA-125 test is not used alone to diagnose cancer. It is used in conjunction with other tests and evaluations due to its potential for false positives and negatives.
• Not Specific to Ovarian Cancer: Despite its frequent association with ovarian cancer, CA-125 is not specific to this type of cancer. It can be elevated in other types of cancer as well, including lung, breast, and pancreatic cancers.

In summary, while the Serum CA-125 test plays a vital role in cancer detection and management, it is not a definitive test for cancer. It is a tool used in conjunction with other diagnostic procedures to provide a comprehensive evaluation of a patient's health.

CA-125 Serum test is typically ordered when a woman is suspected of having ovarian cancer. The test can be required in several situations:

• Diagnosis: When a woman presents symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, rapid weight loss, or changes in bowel movements that may suggest ovarian cancer, a doctor may order a CA-125 test.
• Monitoring: If a woman has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the CA-125 test can be used to monitor the progress of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment. If CA-125 levels decrease, it suggests that the cancer is responding to treatment.
• Recurrence: Even after successful treatment of ovarian cancer, there is a risk the cancer can return. By regularly monitoring CA-125 levels, doctors can detect a potential recurrence of the disease at an early stage, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

The CA-125 Serum test is primarily used for women, especially those who are in the high-risk category for ovarian cancer. The following groups of people may require this test:

• Women with symptoms: Women who are experiencing symptoms that may indicate ovarian cancer, such as pelvic pain, bloating, or frequent urination, may be recommended to undergo a CA-125 test.
• Women with a family history: Women who have a family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer might be recommended to have regular CA-125 tests as part of their routine check-ups.
• Postmenopausal women: As the risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, postmenopausal women may be recommended to undergo regular CA-125 tests, especially if they have other risk factors for the disease.
• Women under treatment: Women who are undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer may have regular CA-125 tests to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and to detect any signs of the disease returning.

The CA-125 Serum test measures the level of the protein CA-125 in the blood. This protein is often elevated in women with ovarian cancer. The following points are considered in a CA-125 serum test:

• The normal range for CA-125 in the blood is between 0 and 35 units per milliliter (U/mL).
• Levels above this may indicate the presence of ovarian cancer, but can also be due to other conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, liver disease, or pancreatitis.
• Also, not all women with ovarian cancer have elevated CA-125 levels. Therefore, the CA-125 test is not a definitive test for ovarian cancer, but it can provide valuable information when used as part of a comprehensive diagnostic process.

• CA-125, also known as cancer antigen 125, is a protein that is found at high levels in ovarian cancer cells.
• This test measures the amount of CA-125 in the blood. The methodology used for this test is known as Immunoassay (IA).
• An Immunoassay is a laboratory technique that makes use of the binding between an antigen and its homologous antibody to identify and quantify the specific antigen or antibody in a sample.
• In the case of CA-125, this test is used to monitor certain conditions or to check for cancer, particularly ovarian cancer.
• During the test, a sample of your blood is taken and sent to the lab.
• The lab uses a special machine to detect and measure the amount of CA-125 in your blood.

• Preparation for a CA-125 blood test is relatively straightforward.
• Typically, no special preparation is required. However, you should always follow your doctor's instructions.
• Before the test, inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you're taking as they may affect the test results.
• The test is performed on a blood sample, which means a small amount of blood will be drawn from your arm. If you have a fear of needles or blood, it may be helpful to bring someone with you for support.
• Wear a short-sleeved shirt or a shirt with sleeves that can be easily rolled up to allow the healthcare provider easy access to your arm.

• During the CA-125 blood test, a healthcare provider will clean an area of your arm with an antiseptic.
• They will then insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw a sample of blood.
• You may feel a quick sting or pinch when the needle is inserted, but the discomfort should pass quickly.
• The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory where it will be analyzed for the presence and amount of CA-125.
• The results of the test will be sent to your doctor who will discuss them with you.
• High levels of CA-125 can indicate the presence of ovarian cancer or other conditions. However, the test is not definitive and further tests may be required to confirm a diagnosis.

• CA-125, also known as Cancer Antigen 125, is a protein that is present in the blood and is often used as a tumor marker. It is frequently used to monitor ovarian cancer.
• The CA-125 Serum normal range in a healthy woman is less than 35 units per milliliter (U/mL). However, this value can vary slightly depending on the lab where the test is done.
• It is important to note that while CA-125 is most commonly associated with ovarian cancer, elevated levels can also be seen in other conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and liver disease.

• Elevated CA-125 levels can be due to a variety of conditions, both benign and malignant. Common causes include ovarian cancer, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and liver disease.
• Some women may also have naturally high levels of CA-125 even without any underlying disease.
• Menstruation and pregnancy can also cause elevated CA-125 levels.
• It is also possible for some cancers, such as breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers, to cause elevated CA-125 levels.

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
• Regular check-ups with your doctor can help detect any early signs of disease that could cause elevated CA-125 levels.
• Reducing stress can also help maintain a normal CA-125 level. Stress can have a significant impact on our physical health, including our hormonal balance.
• For those with conditions that can cause elevated CA-125 levels, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, proper management of the condition is crucial.

• After the CA-125 test, continue to monitor any symptoms and report any changes to your doctor.
• Remember that CA-125 is only one tool that doctors use to diagnose and monitor diseases. Do not rely solely on this test for a diagnosis.
• If your CA-125 level is elevated, your doctor may recommend additional tests to determine the cause.
• Regular follow-up with your doctor is crucial, especially if you have been diagnosed with a condition that can cause elevated CA-125 levels.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage your condition and prevent any potential complications.

There are several compelling reasons to choose Bajaj Finserv Health for your medical testing needs. Here are some of the top reasons:

• Precision: All labs associated with Bajaj Finserv Health are equipped with the latest technologies to ensure the highest level of accuracy in your test results.
• Cost-effectiveness: Our individual diagnostic tests and healthcare providers are comprehensive, yet affordable, ensuring that your medical expenses are kept to a minimum.
• Home sample collection: We offer the convenience of collecting your test samples from your home at a time that suits you best.
• Countrywide availability: Regardless of your location in the country, our medical test services are readily accessible to you.
• Convenient payment options: We offer flexible payment options, allowing you to choose between cash or digital methods. ```html