CA 125

[bmfk]

I was diagnosed with what looks likes a 4.7 cm dermoid on my right ovary a couple weeks ago via a pelvic CT scan and will be having surgery soon once my anemia is helped along.  The doctor ran a CA 125 test today along with a second ultrasound.  Is that standard procedure that the GYN would run the CA 125 test if a dermoid is always benign?  I am 42 years old.  I am just wondering if I should worry or read anything more into this.

Thanks.

[Jess079]

Hi there,

When my doctor diagnosed me with a 5 CM cyst, she also ordered me the CA125. And I'm only 27. I think it's standard procedure, kind of like a starting point to help them determine if anything is irregular. The downside is that even if your score is elevated it doesn't mean you have cancer. A regular score should be no higher than 32...mine was 55.6. For me, it was endo making my score that high. My doctor herself even said those tests aren't all that reliable cause a lot of factors can raise your score.

Jessica

[Tybear]

Dermoids are usually for younger women, but on the flipside, Ovarian Cancer is usually reserved for women in their 50's and I got it at 26 - anything is possible, I guess! I'm really not sure how anyone could tell if something were benign or malignant from a CT scan - I would think a pathologist would be the only one to decide this. If you have a chance, I would mention all your concerns to your Gyne and see what she thinks. If you don't feel comfortable, then see a gyne/onc - do what makes you feel most comfortable. Dian is right... you only have one chance to do this right. Good luck to you!
Becky

[bmfk]

Thanks for replying.  I understand what you are saying and agree.  So far I have only been to an OB/GYN and she is new for me.  She can perform the operation to remove the dermoid and she thinks that is what it is as does the CT scan done in July.  My understanding is the CT scan is accurate as far as being able to tell it is a benign dermoid.  True?  

I was thinking if the CA 125 would happen to come back elevated, then I would seek a GYN/Oncologist before agreeing to surgery.  What do you think?

I also thought dermoids were for women in their 20's and 30's.  I am 42, so what gives?  My cousin's daughter had one removed last year that was thankfully benign.  She was 19 at the time.

Thanks again for your kindness and support.  It's nice not feeling so alone.

[dian07]

Hey there kid...dian here...I can certainly understand your anxiety...we have all been there...still...I would highly recommend you get a gyn/oncologist to do your surgery ...this is his area of expertise and ...YOU HAVE ONLY ONE CHANCE TO GET IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME...you absolutely must have the right person doing your surgery so the job will be done correctly ....your prognosos depends on your choices...
Peace.
dian

[bmfk]

Thank you for your reply.  I appreciate your kindness and honesty.  You did not scare me since I want honest answers during this waiting and wondering period.  That's why I wrote because sometimes family and friends mean well when they tell you not to worry or it's going to be okay but you internally have a doubt and can't help but worry.

So a huge thank you to you for shaing your thoughts with me.

Take care,
Barbara

[Tybear]

I would try not to worry, but Dermoids aren't always benign (the percentage is incredibly small though, that it would be malignant). Your gyne sounds very thorough, which is exactly what you want at this point. A CA125 test is not a great test in someone who is premenopausal, as it's not very accurate. A Dr would never diagnose cancer based on the results of it as many other benign conditions can cause it to elevate - it's just a good place to start. A diagnosis of benign or malignant can't be properly given until after surgery, when it's been evaluated by a pathologist. If your CA125 comes back extremely elevated, I would consider being treated by a gyne/oncologist - not because that means you have cancer, but because they are the ones who know whats best should things go in a different direction during surgery. I hope I didn't scare you, but I just want you to be informed - you've come to the right site, so ask lots of questions! Many women here to help!
Becky