test results help

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vtz
vtz Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Ovarian Cancer #1
Hi, I had a CT scan done a few weeks ago and the found a 4.3 cm mass on my left ovary and a 2mm calcification. I just had a CA 125 done. I was able to get the results but not talk to my Dr. the ca 125 is 7.9. What does all this mean? Thanks for any help.

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  • TDodds68
    TDodds68 Member Posts: 29
    #2
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    CA 125
    Here is something I found on-line about the normal range of CA 125 it says less than 35 U/ML is in normal range.

    What is CA 125?

    CA 125 is a protein that is a so-called tumor marker or biomarker, which is a substance that is found in greater concentration in tumor cells than in other cells of the body. In particular, CA 125 is present in greater concentration in ovarian cancer cells than in other cells. Its function is not currently understood. CA stands for cancer antigen.


    How is CA 125 measured?

    CA 125 is usually measured from a blood sample. It can also be measured in fluid from the chest or abdominal cavity. The tests currently in use are all based upon the use of an antibody that is directed against the CA 125 protein (monoclonal antibody technique).

    In 1996, an improved version of the test was introduced and is sometimes denoted as CA 125 - II. The numerical figure of the second generation test results may be higher or lower than a first generation test. When comparing multiple test results over time, it can be important to know which method was used.


    What is the normal range for CA 125?

    The normal values for CA 125 may vary slightly among individual laboratories. In most laboratories, the normal value is less than 35 U /ml.

    In the patient who is being evaluated for a pelvic mass, a CA 125 level greater than 65 is associated with malignancy in approximately 90% of cases. However, without a demonstrable mass, the association is much weaker.

    What conditions other than ovarian cancer can cause an increased CA 125?

    A number of benign conditions can cause elevations of the CA 125 level, including pregnancy, endometriosis, uterine fibroids (benign tumors), pancreatitis, normal menstruation, pelvic inflammatory disease, and liver disease. Benign tumors of the ovaries can also cause an abnormal test result. Increases can also be seen in cancers other than ovarian cancer, including malignancies of the uterine tubes, endometrium, lung, breast, and gastrointestinal tract.

    Hope this helps some.
  • BonnieR
    BonnieR Member Posts: 1,526 Member
    #3
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    ca125 and ct scans
    Dear VTZ, A ca125 at 7.9 means the test is showing no cancer but the ca125 alone is not an absolute. The radioligist will have more details about the mass, it could be a cystic mass which are not cancerous. Your Dr will have more details and more answers for you, lots of women have masses that are not cancerous ~ sounds like you have a good Dr who is doing all the right the tests. Hugs ♥ Prayers Bonnie

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