Nervous about CA125 levels

I have had some issues recently including a discovery of Anemea, low hemoglobin and folic acid. I have been suffering panic attacks, depression and anxiety which apparently are symptoms of low iron. I am 46 and still menstruation and I have always had unusual heavy periods. My GP called today and told me from a recent blood test that my CA125 level is a little high and started talking about Ovarian cancer. I had taken the day off work due to being so fatigued and it is all such a worry. Any advice appreciated as I don't want to share with family and friends at the moment.

  • Welcome to the forum Ruby although I'm sorry to hear that your latest blood test results showed your ca125 levels were a little high.

    I know this must be worrying, especially when ovarian cancer is mentioned, but I hope it helps to know that a raised ca125 level is an indication that there is some sort of inflammation in the pelvic area and other conditions such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis and fibroids can cause this to rise.

    If you'd like to discuss this further with one of our cancer nurses, you can do so on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday (except bank holidays) between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very well informed and will do all they to put your mind at ease at this time.

    Many of our members who have been in a similar situation will definitely understand how you're feeling at the moment and hopefully some of them will offer their support and advice to you as well.

    We're thinking of you Ruby and will have our fingers crossed everything will be o.k.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi

    Its difficult to not worry but my advice would be to think of the CA125 as a blood test for a lot of different things not just cancer. My CA125 is 141 with other stuff going on but I'm convinced it's the other stuff going on that's causing a high result, currently under investigation.

    Your heavy periods could be stemming from some other underlying benign cause which in turn is causing the anaemia and other underlying causes can cause inflammatory responses which raise the CA125.

    I am also 46 and have only just found out in last few weeks that I have endometriosis, possibly adenomyosis and an endometrioma cyst on my ovary, the shock has settled and now I'm just waiting for a treatment plan. 

    Also I have been on and off anaemic since I was 15 with heavy periods being the cause. I'm interested to know if you don't mind sharing if anaemia is a recent diagnosis or if you have had it before? 

    Hope all works out well for you and they get some positive answers for what's going on.

  • Hi

    Thankyou so much for your reply.

    We have some similarity as I have been anemic for most of my life and my periods have always been very heavy. I have had one check for fibroids in the past but that was five years ago, I was all clear. I take iron supplements 200g and my iron has raised slightly. I was on my period when my blood tests were done so I'm hoping this effected the levels rather than a cancer issue. I will update the forum after my ultra sound scan results. Thankyou again as it helps to know there are other women with similar issues. Are you feeling well now?

  • Hi

    I have gynae in 5 days to decide what to do so I have a road ahead of me yet to get back on track of feeling well.

    I had an ablation 2 years ago and that did help the heavy bleeding and worked OK I thought but I still bled every month for 7 days, just lighter. Now they think the ablation has failed due to all the other stuff happening.

    Take care, please do update the forum when you know more.