Home Tests Cancer Ag 125  (CA 125)

Cancer Ag 125  (CA 125)

Umm Al Hamam Al Gharbi, Riyadh - 145KM

What is CA 125?
CA 125 (Cancer Antigen 125) is a protein that is often elevated in the blood of individuals with certain types of cancer, most notably ovarian cancer. It can also be elevated in other conditions, both cancerous and non-cancerous. This test is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment in ovarian cancer and detect recurrence, as well as for other cancers like endometrial, peritoneal, and fallopian tube cancers.

When Should You Do the CA 125 Test?
Ovarian Cancer Monitoring: If a person has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the CA 125 test helps in assessing the response to treatment and monitoring for any recurrence.
Screening in High-Risk Individuals: For women with a family history of ovarian cancer or those at high risk, the CA 125 test may be part of regular screenings, although it’s not recommended as a standalone screening test.
Symptomatic Evaluation: It may also be performed if a woman presents symptoms like pelvic pain, bloating, or abnormal bleeding, which can be associated with ovarian cancer.
What to Do Before the Test?
No Special Preparations: Typically, no fasting or specific preparations are needed before taking the CA 125 test.
Inform Your Doctor: Always inform your healthcare provider of any medications or medical conditions, as certain conditions, such as menstruation, pregnancy, or pelvic inflammatory disease, can affect CA 125 levels.
Importance of the Test
The CA 125 test is a valuable tool for monitoring ovarian cancer treatment and recurrence. It’s not considered accurate enough for early detection in the general population, but it provides essential information about the progression or remission of ovarian cancer when combined with other diagnostic methods, such as imaging studies.