What does a blood test for CA125 check for?

May 14, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Qi Zhirong
Introduction
Blood tests for CA125 are primarily used to detect the presence and progression of female reproductive system cancers, such as ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer. Therefore, CA125 testing should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical symptoms and diagnostic results when used as an indicator for cancer screening and diagnosis, and it should not be used alone to determine whether a person has cancer. It is recommended to undergo further examinations under the guidance of a physician.

Generally, blood testing for CA125 is primarily used to detect the presence and progression of cancers in the female reproductive system, such as ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer. The details are as follows:

CA125 is a glycoprotein found on the surface of ovarian cancer cells. When ovarian cancer cells proliferate abnormally, they release increased amounts of CA125 protein into the bloodstream. Therefore, elevated levels of CA125 in blood tests are often an indicator of ovarian cancer. Additionally, CA125 can also be present in endometrial cancer and other types of cancer. However, it is not a highly specific marker, as CA125 levels may also rise in certain non-cancerous conditions, such as endometriosis, endometrial polyps, and pelvic inflammatory disease.

Therefore, CA125 blood testing should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical symptoms and diagnostic findings when used for cancer screening or diagnosis. It should not be used alone to determine whether a person has cancer. It is recommended to undergo further evaluation under a physician's guidance to confirm the diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.


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