Cancer Antigen (CA) 125 Test

The CA-125 test is a blood test that measures the levels of CA-125, a protein marker, in the bloodstream. CA125 is primarily produced by certain cells in the body, including cells lining the ovaries and other reproductive organs. The test is commonly used as a tumor marker to aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of ovarian cancer. Elevated levels of CA-125 can indicate the presence of ovarian cancer, although it can also be elevated in other conditions, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or certain inflammatory conditions. The CA-125 test is especially important for individuals at higher risk of ovarian cancer, those with a family history of the disease, or those presenting with symptoms associated with ovarian cancer.