Hello has your mum had cancer of any kind before .
A CA 125 test measures the amount of the protein CA 125 (cancer antigen 125) in the blood.
This test may be used to monitor certain cancers during and after treatment. In some situations, the test may be used to look for early signs of ovarian cancer in people with a very high risk of the disease.
A number of conditions that aren't cancerous can cause an elevated CA 125 level, including:
Endometriosis
Liver disease
Menstruation
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Pregnancy
Uterine fibroids
Sometimes it's not cancer making the markers go up hope this helps a little x
Hi mum has never had cancer she has always. Been healthy ahe ha heart disease and is in meds but os up and about all the time goes to town on the bus every day
The CA125 is a protein found in blood. If the level is raised, this indicates that there is some sort of inflammation in the pelvic area. But it cannot tell the doctor exactly what is causing the inflammation. So it is not specific for ovarian cancer. Other conditions can cause this level to rise such as ovarian cysts, and fibroids.
The symptoms of ovarian cancer are also similar to other non-cancerous conditions. This is why doctors will not rely on the CA125 test alone to help diagnose someone. If necessary, they will suggest an ultrasound which will look at the pelvic area in more detail.
You can read more about the CA 125 test by clicking here.
Waiting when you are worried is stressful but I hope you both know more about your mum's situation soon. Give us a ring if you would like to talk things over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
