Tumor Marker Antigen 125 U/ml
Sep 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. You Zhangxuan
Introduction
Cancer antigen 125 (CA125) U/ml is a protein normally produced by epithelial cells of the ovary. Under normal conditions, the concentration of CA125 is very low; however, in certain situations—such as the presence of malignant tumors like ovarian cancer—the level of CA125 can significantly increase.
CA-125 antigen, measured in U/ml, is a protein typically produced by epithelial cells of the ovary. A detailed analysis is as follows:
Under normal circumstances, the concentration of CA-125 antigen is very low. However, in certain conditions—such as the presence of malignant tumors like ovarian cancer—the level of CA-125 antigen can significantly increase. An elevated CA-125 level does not necessarily indicate ovarian cancer or other malignancies; it may also rise in various benign conditions, including endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, liver disease, and pneumonia. Additionally, certain physiological factors such as the menstrual cycle and pregnancy can also lead to increased CA-125 levels. Therefore, an isolated elevation in CA-125 antigen cannot confirm the presence of a serious illness. When CA-125 levels are elevated, physicians typically perform a comprehensive evaluation by considering other clinical symptoms, physical findings, and additional test results. Further diagnostic procedures, such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI, may be required to determine whether a malignancy is present.
In summary, an elevated CA-125 antigen level does not necessarily indicate a severe disease, but it may serve as a warning sign that warrants further assessment and investigation to identify the underlying cause.
