Sudden Rise in CA-125

My wife completed a 6-week regimen of chemotherapy on 2/13/2009.  During the process, her CA-125 went from a high of 76.5 (10/3/2008) to 10.3 (2,13/2009), then down to 5.1 (5/11/2009), 5.4 (8/5/2009), then it started to climb slowly: 5.6 (11/4/2009), 10.2 (2/3/2010).  Then, in five days, it shot up to 204 (2/8/2010).  Needless to say, I'm terrified.  Can you tell me what that sudden twenty-fold increase portends?  It can't be good.  But however bad it is, I need to prepare myself to be strong for her.

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There

It is worrisome that her CA 125 has risen. There are other possible explanations. Infection , even pneumonia can cause a rise. But it is best to check a CT scan to evaluate.

I am sorry for the stress you and your wife are going through. Please let us know how things are going.
take care