CA 125

[smokeybug]

hello ladies,
I just found your site, I have been looking for information regarding CA 125 increase this visit.  
I am 56 diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer Stage IV,  Aug 06, it has been 2 years now, my CA 125 has been 7 and 9 last Oct,  and last friday it was 24.5.  My doctor said my CT scan has no changes he could see, but that they may test is that the PET scan, he said prob?  My mother and husband was in the room, I wanted to ask more questions,  but then just wanted to get out of there....I am concerned that the cancer is coming back and this is the benchmark for that....right!  They don't want to tell you too much I know but I feel better knowing what to expect.  
Love, Peace, Hope
A sister too.

[crecco]

I understand that you did not want to talk to your Dr with your mom and husband in the room, I am the same way. But you still need to ask any questions that you have.
  As you know, with stage IV ovarian cancer, there are usually always microscopic cells that remain. And yes you are still in the normal range of your CA. If I were you I would go ahead with the PET scan, if for nothing else to ease your mind. And it might not hurt to schedule an appointment with your Dr where you can go by yourself and ask him all of the questions that are bothering you.
  I wish you the best and please keep us informed as to what is going on.
   Chris

[Cindy809]

Hello...I agree with what Ronni and Joanne said.  I would like to add that the Ca125 is a good test for some and not for others.  In Ronni's case hers fluctuates.  In my case a 5 point rise is the first sign that the disease is starting to progress!  When it starts doubling (even below 35)  I have to start treatment due to my aggressive disease (grade 3 tumor) to stay alive.  So each case of Ovarian Cancer is different. I am very different from Ronni.   In your case your doctor will probably start to look for a trend.  Ronni mentioned a CA125 could rise for other reasons but unfortunately when diagnosed with OVCA it usually means a recurrence unless you are in the small percentage that it doesn't.  The reason why I say that is because it has happened to me 4 times.  Again, I am different from you.  I wish for you that it is something else!!!! Joanne mentioned that a PetCt is usually not covered by insurance.  I have a problem getting one because the "standard of care" for ovca with my insurance company is I have to get a CT scan first then a PetCt before they will pay for the PetCT.  Ridiculous, yes!   My doctor appeals every time discussing it with a GP representing the insurance co. not an oncologist and it never works.  Ct scans do not work for me (too much scar tissue).  This has been going on for 2 years now.  So I get two scans a day apart. You may not have any problem with your insurance company but if your insurance company denies the PetCt ask your doctor to appeal it (work on it for you!!) and then you can also do the same.  Your doctor should be able to help you with whatever your need could be.  He is getting paid to do so.  If you are not happy with his care get a second opinion.  You need a doctor that you can talk to.  If you are at a loss for words be prepared with a list of questions for him.  That works very well and he should address each question.  The relationship between you and your doctor should fit like a glove.  Mine keeps up with everything about me, even my mood and my relationship with my husband.  He makes sure I don't get depressed.   I hope you are like Ronni and it is just a fluctuation.
Best Wishes and please keep us posted....Cindy

[vegas2cr]

First off the rise you have shown could be anything non cancer related... it could be an infection, cold or even any inflammation.. My Ca 125 has risen every single month since January until last month.. You are as I am still in normal range... my oncologist believes for me this is where my body wants to be .As long as the transvaginal does not show anything we have taken a wait and see attitude.. quality of life means a great deal to me and my family and in the end... well if we started treatment 6 months early will it make any difference in how long I live with stage IV... we think not...

Demand answers for your questions... I cringe when some woman tells me her doctors skirt the issues.. I don't know if that is your doctor but pin him down.. ask him does he want a PET scan and Joanne is right most insurance companies do NOT cover it...

My CA 125 was 6.0 in January and tripled to 18.7 but last month it was down to 12.4... I have done nothing nor will I at this point.. For ME stats say do nothing until it is visible...  

Good luck.. Ronni

[jlock]

I'm sorry but I don't quite understand what you are asking?? What problems did your Onc mention?? I know many insurance companies do not cover PET scans..so if thats one thing they're talking about doing I think you might want to make sure your covered by ins if you need it.  ~~~Joanne