CA-125

[Cricket06]

I am 37 yrs old, two children.  I lost my mother 2 yrs ago to Primary Peritoneal/Ovarian cancer.  I took the ca-125 test 2 yrs ago never thinking it would come back abnormal.  It was 36, and had to repeat the tests and had vaginal ultrasounds with no findings.  This occurred while my mother was alive and she said 36 is not all that hight (considering hers was 10,0000) It went back down over a couple of months.  Then repeated again (can't keep track of how many tests or ultrasounds at least 10 or more to date) and it came back abnormal again.  During this time I developed a cyst on my inscision ( on the outside of my abdomin, under the skin from my  c-section of last birth a year later.)  Mentioned to OB that I had this and he dismissed.  This year in January I could not bare this cyst anymore (painful) and told him again that it gets inflamed.  He said it could and sounded like Endometriosis (after several blood tests and ultrasounds later) this time.  Had surgery In January of 08 and that is the finding.  It actually had started to grow back into my abdominal lining and he had to remove part of that to get it all.  Ca-125 was 61 before surgery and had another test done 3 weeks ago and only dropped to 56.  I am meeting him next week for further options.  As it should have dropped down more. This test is worrisome.  I can't get a straight answer.  However knowing that the findings of the endometriosis and that runs in my family as well.  I am just trying to be hopeful, as there is no other Ovarian or breast cancer in the family.  I still have regular montly cycle, very heavy cycles.  I do smoke, off and on (shame on me and had quit for both pregnancies and 2 yrs after my last daughter born in 04) .  I read in one of the forums that this can alter as well.  I need a second opinion.  I have a wonderful Dr, but he is overwhelmed in his practice I am learning, and not sure if he is hearing me.  

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There
the CA 125 protein can be elevated in women with endometriosis. For these women and that would also include you, the CA 125 can track the growth of endometriosis. With your family history, you should consider a full removal of your uterus, tubes and ovaries once you have completed your family.
While endometriosis is benign, some can transform into malignancy.
take care

[Memmers]

My mom is in remission from Ovaraina Cancer and she does routine Ca-125 but also B7 blood test which is also a tumor marker for Ovarian Cancer.  The Ca-125 is not accurate but maybe is u suggest doing both of these blood tests you'd have better answers Good Luck!!!

[silver&gold]

Hi,
I had endometriosis that turned into a malignancy and a few others on this forum have too. Just make sure that you go for regular tests and if you feel uneasy with your present docs opinion , go and get a second one for peace of mind .

Take care Angie