anxious about diagnostic tests

A recent blood test showed raised ca 125 (just a bit raised at 59) and raised ferrtin. The test was done after I reported persistant abdominal cramps that I had assumed were just part of the menopause (I'm 52). I also have a lot of bloating, but I use an APAP machine at night, so this is not unusual for me! An abdominal ultrasound showed nothing abnormal apart from a small uterine hemangioma. The gynacologist doesn't want to see me, but requested a repeat ca 125 in 3 months time. Is it safe to wait this long? I read the recent PLOS medicine paper that said ca 125 can also be raised by other cancers. Isn't 3 months a long time to just leave what might be cancer elsewhere to get itself established? I'm sure I'm just worrying too much, but there are too many stories about 'if I'd recognised the symptoms earlier' and 'if only the GP had taken me more seriously'....

  • Hello and thank you for your post.

    I do think your GP has followed clinical guidance because you had a CA125 test and a ultrasound scan. If your scan showed something that could be a cancer then you would have been referred to see a gynaecologist under the urgent cancer referral system. Please look at our information about seeing a specialist if there is a concern that someone could have ovarian cancer on our website here 

    Please be reassured that the gynaecologist has seen your results and does not feel they need to see you. You are being asked to have a further Ca125 test in 3 months. Repeat tests are not usually done quickly as time is need to see if changes are made. 

    Currently the CA125 test is only done if there is a possibility someone could have ovarian cancer. As you know it is not a perfect test and that is why a ultrasound is often used alongside it.  Currently it is not used to help diagnose any other type of cancer. 

    In the meantime , while you are waiting for this further blood test, it is important to go and see your GP if symptoms persist. So what ever happens with your blood test do go back if your pain and bloating persist.

    I hope this helps. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline 

  • Thanks, Caroline. Just so difficult to deal with the uncertainty when everything (except the scan) has been done over the 'phone!! Hopefully actual appointments will be 'a thing' again soon! The bloating is unlikely to go anywhere as I've had it for nearly a decade!!

     

    Thanks again!