Postsurgical Elevation of CA-125

[N.J.]

I have Stage IV Ovarian Cancer and had a significant amount of it removed 2 weeks ago.  My surgeon treated the cancer locally with chemotherapy.  I just had a CA-125 test done and it is significantly higher than before my surgery.  My surgeon told me that it may take 3-4 weeks after surgery for my levels to decrease due to the reaction of the chemotherapy during surgery.  Are CA-125 levels typically elevated post-surgically and when should I have this checked again?

[Patann]

I wanted to help set your mind at ease. I also had stIV O.C., surgery, and my CA125 was elevated after surgery. My surgeon said this was usual, for it to be elevated after such a procedure. I don't know if this is a rule, but it did happen in my case and was confirmed by my surgeon.

[Lh]

My CA was 15 at the time of my second surgery.  Post surgery it was 155.  This was a direct result of the surgery.  It took about six weeks for it to return to single digits.