CA-125
Definition
CA-125 is a protein that is more prevalent in ovarian cancer cells than in other cells. This protein enters the blood stream and can be measured by a blood test. There are two CA-125 tests, a first and second generation test. The second generation test is now more widely used and is generally more accurate.
Why is the Test Performed?
The test is most appropriately used to follow women who have already been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. In these cases, the CA-125 is a very good indicator of whether a patient is responding to treatment for her cancer, and whether a patient remains in remission after treatment. In general, the CA-125 is not a good test to screen healthy women for ovarian cancer.
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