Why CA125 Test is done? Test preparation, sample collection, report delivery time, normal range, and all the details

Today we will discuss CA125 Test.
Why is this test done or what symptoms do doctors allow to do this test? Is there any preparation for this test? How long it takes to do this test and how long it takes to get the report delivered? All will be in this post.

CA 125 Test:

CA-125 is a blood test used to measure levels of a protein called cancer antigen 125 (CA-125). It is used especially to diagnose ovarian cancer as a tumor marker.

Why is the ca125 test done?

Here are some key points regarding the CA125 test:

1. Ovarian Cancer Detection: CA125 is mainly used to detect ovarian cancer. If the level of CA 125 increases in the blood, it can reveal the symptoms of ovarian cancer.
2. Monitoring Treatment: CA125 test is done in ovarian cancer treatment. CA125 levels may reduce with good treatment. And if the rate is more, then more new methods have to be adopted.
3. Limitations: CA125 levels are not only elevated in ovarian cancer. Other causes may include endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and uterine fibroids.
4. Additional Testing: The CA125 test along with ultrasound or CT scan helps to detect ovarian cancer.
5. Other Cancers: CA125 levels may be high in other cancers of the body. Other parts such as the uterus, fallopian tubes, pancreas, and lungs. Although the probability of this is very low.
6. Follow-Up: The CA125 test should be done as a routine test in people diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Those with a family history of ovarian cancer, and those with a history of certain genetic mutations should also do this test.
7. Early Detection: If there are symptoms of ovarian cancer or if it is done as a routine test, it can be detected very early.
8. Menstrual Cycle: CA125 levels can fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, with higher ca 125 results at this time. It is done during the early follicular phase days 3 to 5 of the menstrual cycle for accurate results.
9. Consultation: If a doctor sees signs of ovarian cancer or other symptoms of the disease. Then this test can be given to investigate.

To prepare for a CA125 test:

• For this test, you must choose the time according to your doctor’s advice.
• It should be done during the early follicular phase days 3 to 5 of the menstrual cycle.
• If you take any medication, you must tell the doctor about it.

Sample Collections:

Blood must be taken for this test. A red tube will be needed to collect blood. After that, it is clotted and centrifuged to extract the serum. The serum is necessary to test the machine.

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Delivery time:

This test takes 35-50 minutes on automatic machines

Machines that provide good results are listed below:

• Vitros 5600
• Vitros Eciq
• Alinity
• Architect
  Etc.

Report delivery time depends mainly on the diagnostic center. But it is possible to receive the report within 8-10 hours.

Ca 125 Reference Values:

The normal value of Ca 125 <= 35.00

Reporting unit: U/ml.

Here equal to or below 35.00 is normal.

causes of raised CA125 in males?

Here are 4 potential causes of elevated CA125 levels in men:

1. Inflammation: CA125 levels can be high in men with diseases such as pancreatitis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
2. Cancer: lung or gastrointestinal cancers can increase the level of CA125.
3. Liver Disease: CA125 levels may be elevated due to liver conditions such as cirrhosis or hepatitis.
4. Infection: Ca 125 levels may be raised in peritonitis or abscess.

Is a CA125 blood test fluctuating?

Sometimes CA 125 test results may vary.

• The results vary more during the menstrual cycle in womans. So this test must be done within 3-5 days of the menstrual cycle.
• Furthermore, if the concentration of the blood sample is higher than that of the machine, the result may be lower or higher.
•  Machines may give incorrect results if the quality control is not correct.

Is CEA and CA125 the same?

CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) and CA125 (cancer antigen 125) are two different tests.

• CEA in various types of cancer done for colorectal, lung, and pancreas.
• CA125 is only done for ovarian cancer

But sometimes doctors give both tests together.

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Conclusion:

A good doctor should be consulted before doing this test. If you have any symptoms related to this test, you should immediately go to the doctor. Test quality or results are better in good diagnostic centers.

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