Does high CA-125 always mean cancer?
Does high CA-125 always mean cancer?
No, a high CA-125 does not always mean cancer is present. Generally speaking, the normal range of CA-125 is considered to be 0-35 units/mL, while a level above 35 units/mL is considered to be a high CA-125 level.
What cancers does a CA-125 detect?
Cancer antigen 125 (CA125) is a protein found on most ovarian cancer cells that is secreted into the blood stream and can be measured….The CA125 blood levels can be increased in ovarian cancer and other cancers including:
- uterine.
- fallopian tube.
- pancreatic.
- breast.
- colorectal.
- lung.
- stomach.
What is a normal CA-125 blood test?
The normal range for CA 125 is 0 to 35 units/ml. While a CA 125 level over 35 may indicate cancer, it does not always mean the person has cancer. A CA 125 level over 35 is only a potential indicator.
What can cause high levels of CA-125?
Many other conditions also can cause an elevated CA 125 level, including:
- Endometriosis.
- Liver cirrhosis.
- Normal menstruation.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Uterine fibroids.
Is CA-125 a tumor marker?
Cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) is the only tumor marker recommended for clinical use in the diagnosis and management of ovarian cancer.
Can CA-125 be raised without cancer?
If your CA 125 level is higher than expected, you may have a condition that isn’t cancerous, or the test result could mean that you have ovarian, endometrial, peritoneal or fallopian tube cancer. Your provider may recommend other tests and procedures to determine your diagnosis.
How can I lower my CA-125?
However, there are some lifestyle factors you can control to decrease your risk of ovarian cancer.
- Exercise and Diet. By maintaining a weekly exercise regime and a healthy diet, the risk of ovarian cancer decreases.
- Oral Contraceptives.
- Avoiding Carcinogens.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding.
- Healthy Lifestyle.
What does it mean if CA-125 is high?
Can stress cause CA-125 to rise?
There is also some evidence to suggest that stress may cause your body to generate increased CA-125. If you’re experiencing any of the above health conditions, including high levels of stress, tell your doctor before having your test done.
Why has my doctor asked for a CA125 blood test?
A CA125 blood test should be requested if a doctor suspects a patient’s symptoms could be caused by ovarian cancer. A referral for this blood test should be made if a woman is presenting with any of the four main symptoms of ovarian cancer: Persistent stomach pain. Persistent bloating.
How can I lower my CA125?
Can ovarian cysts cause elevated CA-125?
Elevated CA-125 (a protein in the blood that’s associated with ovarian cancer) is most often caused by common, ordinary or benign conditions such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis — or even just having your period.