A CA-125 blood test is used to measure the amount of the protein CA 125 (cancer antigen 125) in the blood. It may be used to monitor certain cancers during and after treatment. It can often be used to identify early signs of ovarian cancer.
The CA-125 protein was first identified in the early 1980s; however, its function in the body is not currently understood. It is presently the only tumour marker recommended for clinical use in diagnosing and managing ovarian cancer.
The CA 125 test is usually conducted on women who have already been diagnosed with ovarian cancer – to determine if their cancer treatment is working or if cancer has returned – or on those with a high risk of ovarian cancer, such as those with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. It is not recommended for women with an average risk of ovarian cancer.
CA 125 is a sugar-associated protein (glycoprotein) and a ‘biomarker’ for ovarian cancer because it is found in a greater concentration of ovarian cancer cells.
The ovaries are two female reproductive glands that store ova (eggs) and produce female hormones. Ovarian cancer occurs when there is unrestrained cell growth in the ovary.
An increase in CA 125 can be caused by cancers, such as ovarian, endometrial, peritoneal and fallopian tube cancers.
Women with uterine fibroids, pancreatitis, diverticulosis, liver cirrhosis, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or menstruating may also have a high level of CA 125 in their blood.
Other names for CA 125 include cancer antigen 125, glycoprotein antigen, ovarian cancer antigen, and CA-125 tumour marker.
The CA-25 test is as simple as a usual blood test. An experienced healthcare professional takes a small sample of your blood and collects it into a test tube or vial.
The process usually takes around 5 minutes and has minimal risk. There are no preparations needed before a CA 125 test.
To enquire about our CA-125 blood test, please get in touch with us via our contact form, or give us a call.
