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Raised CA125

squiff
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Hello, I had a CA125 result of 64 in June last year, had an ultrasound and everything was fine, a nabothian cyst was found and the gynae said I had a slightly thickened emdometrial lining. I think at some point someone mentioned a fibroid but nothing that needed further treatment. My Gp has repeated the test last week and my CA125 has gone up to 151, I am obviously scared. GP did more blood tests yesterday (I don't know what for yet) and I have another pelvic ultrasound on the 21st Jan. I have also had a chest scan (clear) and am awaiting an upper abdominal scan. I have a small mole on my scalp that the GP has sent photos away to be checked out. I have read through many other posts and can't see anyone with a CRA125 this high, or anyone whose result has gone up so much so quickly. Looking for advice to try and keep me from panicking,

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    Forgot to mention I am 53, have a Mirena coil and no pelvic symptoms or bleeding.

  • Offline in reply to squiff

    Full blood count back this morning, all tests normal 

  • Offline in reply to squiff

    Blood tests back this morning, all normal 

  • Hello and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to learn that you are worried about the increase in your CA 125 levels.

    As you may be aware CA 125 is a protein that is produced by the ovaries, it can be raised if there is ovarian cancer, but it is not a completely reliable test as it can be raised for several reasons including endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, and bowel conditions like diverticulitis. We have more information about the CA 125 here.

    It may be that your fibroid or nabothian cyst has increased in size which could affect the CA 125 level. It is reassuring that your chest scan is clear and the other blood tests have come back within normal range, but your GP is right to send you for further investigations to find the reason for the increase.  It may help you to know that women with benign conditions can have very high CA 125 levels (over 1000).

    Your GP is also correct in taking photographs of the mole on your scalp. If you need to see a dermatologist, they will assess the mole and examine it closely with a dermascope (an instrument a bit like a magnifying glass). If they have suspicions about the mole they will normally remove it.  It can then be examined under a microscope and biopsied to check for cell changes including cancer. However, not all moles removed will be found to be cancer. It is always advisable to keep an eye on any moles and to look out for any changes. You may like to read the ABCDE rule here.

    I hope you found this helpful. 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.

    Yours sincerely,

    Tina

    Cancer Information Nurse

    Cancer Research UK
    2 Redman Place
    London
    E20 1JQ

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