About CA-125 — Ovarian Cancer Marker
This specialized tumor marker test measures the concentration of Cancer Antigen 125 (CA-125) protein in the blood. CA-125 is a surface antigen primarily shed by ovarian cancer cells, making it a key biomarker for evaluating ovarian health and cellular abnormalities. Why it is important: The CA-125 test is a crucial clinical tool used primarily for monitoring therapeutic responses during ovarian cancer treatment and detecting early signs of disease recurrence. While it is not a definitive standalone screening tool for the general population—as benign conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or menstruation can also cause elevated levels—it provides vital diagnostic insights when evaluated alongside clinical imaging for high-risk individuals.
Also known as: Cancer Antigen 125, Ovarian Cancer Marker Test, CA-125 Blood Test, Tumor Marker CA-125, CA125 Glycoprotein Test
What is the CA-125 Ovarian Cancer Marker Test?
The CA-125 (Cancer Antigen 125) blood test is a specialized diagnostic tool primarily used as a cancer screening and monitoring aid. CA-125 is a protein found in high concentrations on the surface of ovarian cancer cells. It is shed into the bloodstream, making it a valuable biomarker for detecting potential cellular abnormalities and assessing ovarian health.
What Does This Test Measure?
This test measures the exact concentration of the CA-125 glycoprotein in your blood plasma:
- CA-125 Levels: Elevated levels of this protein are frequently associated with ovarian cancer cells. However, slight elevations can also occur due to benign conditions such as pregnancy, menstruation, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Why is the CA-125 Test Important?
While not used exclusively as a standalone diagnostic tool for everyone, the CA-125 profile is incredibly important for several clinical reasons:
- Monitoring Treatment: For individuals undergoing therapy for ovarian cancer, tracking CA-125 levels helps oncologists determine if the treatment (such as chemotherapy or surgery) is successfully reducing the cancer load.
- Detecting Recurrence: It serves as an early warning system to monitor for the return or recurrence of ovarian cancer after treatment completion.
- High-Risk Evaluation: It provides critical diagnostic insights when evaluated alongside imaging tests (like ultrasounds) for women presenting with a pelvic mass or those with a strong family history of ovarian cancer.
Parameters Tested
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the CA-125 — Ovarian Cancer Marker test measure? +
The CA-125 — Ovarian Cancer Marker measures: CA-125.
Is fasting required for CA-125 — Ovarian Cancer Marker? +
No fasting required. Sample can be collected any time.
How much does CA-125 — Ovarian Cancer Marker cost in Dhanbad? +
The CA-125 — Ovarian Cancer Marker costs ₹1395 in Dhanbad with free home sample collection.
When will I get my CA-125 — Ovarian Cancer Marker results? +
Reports are delivered to your email within 24 hours of sample collection.
Is home sample collection available in Dhanbad? +
Yes, free home collection is available across Dhanbad for all blood tests.