Rising CA 125 level - cause for concern?

Dear All

My mum has stage 3 OVCA diagnosed in March 2005. Her CA125 was 512 when diagnosed. After surgery and chemo her CA 125 went back down to 12 and has been at that level until yesterday and her blood test showed an increase to 21. This has worried me. She had an internal and external examination which showed no signs that the cancer has come back. She has to go back in 12 weeks for another blood test. She feels fine at the moment.
Is this something to worry about?
Does a rise mean the cancer has come back? Can CA 125 rise and not be due to the cancer returning?
What is the 'normal' CA125?

Sorry for all the questions but I am very concerned that this is not a good sign.

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,
I understand your concern. A normal value is usually reported as less than 35. There can be various fluctuations to the value depending on other factors like having a cold, being dehydrated, lab variations and so forth.
Having said that, I agree with rechecking the value in the near future. I would probably lean towards repeating it sooner than 3 months. Can you ask her doctor if the value could be repeated in one month?
Best wishes to you

[casper1991]

I am also wondering what the normal levels for the CA-125 are. I will know my level on Monday. If anyone can help us shed some light on these levels please do. Thanks!!