CA 125 rise and probable recurrence

[dst4402]

Dear Doctor,


I was diagnosed June 14, 2006 with 1A grade three ovarian cancer, miraculously found through a CT scan for diverticulitis. One week I had abdominal pain, and the next week I had a complete hysterectomy, including omentum and cervix.The surgery was successful, and I completed 6 carbo/taxol treatments. My CA 125 prior to surgery was over 4000, and before chemo six weeks later had dropped to 14. After the 1st treatment it was 7. My CA 125 stood at 7-11 throughout the last 23 months. Last month it elevated to 13.8 from 8.8 three months prior. I was concerned, so I had another test this past Monday and it has elevated to 33. I have no other symptoms. I have talked to my doctor, and had a chest and abdominal CT scan today and appointment with him on Tuesday to discuss what is next, treatment options and recurrence in general. It took 2 years to regrow my hair and regain my strength, and I just did not expect to be dealing with recurrence as my prognosis was 90% no recurrence. Recurrence seems to be a whole other ball game, with new rules and many different treatments. I would like to know if recurrent ovarian cancer is always fatal, or if there is a good  chance of remission. I will fight this horrible disease if I have a chance, but I am concerned about quality of life. Can you tell me anything about chance of remission/survival in recurrent ovarian cancer and where I can find more information?

Thank you.
Diane

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,
It is really scary to see the CA 125 go up. I know it is also hard to wait to see your doctor on Tuesday. I agree with Setter. Hang in there. The CT scan may be normal. Then you have to decide if you want to have a laparoscopy to look for microscopic disease or wait another month.

There is a great chance for remission again.

best wishes

[Setter]

Hi my forum name is setter, I also have stage 1c ovarian cancer, diagnosed 10/18/2005,also did 3 carbo/taxol 10 months later did 6 rounds carbo/taxol, ca125 was going up , 10 months later did 7 doxil, now ca125 is 124 doing pet scan tuesday, to decide whats next.  I personally do not think the stage matters, you have to keep fighting no matter what. Its hard to be positive I have been dealing with this for 3 years and stage 1 does not matter , i do everything i can to keep this at bay, like changing diet taking supplements, spiritual guidance, prayer groups, support groups, positive approach you name it i do it. I am writing to you to give you hope HANG in there no matter what and stay positive and do whatever works for YOU!! There are no guarantees!!BE Strong