Risk factors

53 yrs. old 1981 Malignant Melanoma, 1994 Breast Cancer, 2000 Graves 2001 RA 2005 Thyroid Cancer.
Tested yesterday for CA-125. What are considered normal numbers for this test?
Having Trans-vaginal October 8th. Urinary Tract Infection found yesterday-on Cipro 2x a day 500mg.
What are my chances of having ovarian or bladder cancer.
Thanks,
Loretta

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Dear Loretta,
You have a higher risk of ovarian cancer than someone who has not experienced breast cancer. You should talk to your oncologist about a referral to a gynecologic oncologist to discuss risk reducing surgery. that means the prophylactic removal of the ovaries and tubes. this is usually done laparoscopically and is a day surgery procedure. Unless there is another problem with the uterus - bleeding, abnormal paps, prolapse, etc - the uterus does not need to be removed.

A normal CA 125 depends on menopausal state. For women who are menstruating, normal is under 35. For postmenopausal women, Ca 125's are usually in the single digits.

best wishes