CA-125 Test

What Does the CA-125 Test Measure?

The CA-125 test measures the concentration of CA-125 protein in your blood and serves several important medical purposes:

• Monitor cancer treatment progress: Helps doctors check if chemotherapy or other treatments are working effectively.
• Detect cancer recurrence: Can identify if ovarian cancer has returned, sometimes before symptoms appear.
• Assess pelvic masses: Helps determine whether a lump found during imaging is more likely to be cancerous or non-cancerous.
• Screen high-risk individuals: May be used alongside other tests for women with a strong family history or genetic mutations.
• Track treatment response: Provides measurable data to guide treatment decisions throughout your care journey.

CA-125 Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What Symptoms May Call for a CA-125 Test?

Your doctor might recommend a CA-125 test if you experience persistent symptoms that could be related to ovarian cancer or other pelvic conditions:

• Constant or severe abdominal bloating
• Pain or pressure in the pelvic or abdominal area
• Feeling full quickly after starting to eat
• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in bowel habits, like constipation
• Frequent and urgent need to urinate
• Unusual fatigue or back pain

Who Should Get a CA-125 Test?

The test is typically recommended for specific groups of people who may benefit from this monitoring:

• Patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer: To monitor treatment progress and effectiveness.
• Cancer survivors in remission: To check for any signs of recurrence during follow-up care.
• High genetic risk individuals: People with a strong family history or BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations.
• Individuals with pelvic masses: To help determine the nature of lumps found during imaging tests.

Why Is a CA-125 Test Done?

A CA-125 test provides doctors with crucial information for managing, monitoring, or investigating potential health issues. It primarily helps detect ovarian cancer and other conditions affecting the female reproductive system.

Importance of a CA-125 Test

The CA-125 test plays a vital role in ovarian cancer management and women's health care. It helps doctors track how well your treatment is working by providing measurable data about tumour activity. For cancer survivors, rising CA-125 levels can serve as an early warning sign of recurrence, allowing for prompt intervention.

The test also provides valuable prognostic information, helping doctors predict your long-term outlook and make informed treatment decisions. While not perfect as a standalone diagnostic tool, it guides critical medical decisions throughout your cancer journey, from initial assessment to long-term follow-up care.

CA-125 Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to Book a CA-125 Test?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select the 'CA-125 Test', choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure the timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL- & CAP-accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
5. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is Home Sample Collection for the CA-125 Test Available Near You?

Yes, home sample collection for your CA-125 test brings laboratory-quality testing directly to your doorstep. With Metropolis Healthcare's extensive network of over 10,000 touchpoints across India, reliable home collection services are available in most areas, ensuring you receive accurate results without compromising on quality or convenience.

How Long Does It Take to Get a CA-125 Test Report?

Reports are usually available within 8 hours once the sample reaches the lab.

Where Can I See or Get CA-125 Test Results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting CA-125 Test Results

What Your CA-125 Test Results May Indicate

The table below shows the reference range and what a normal CA-125 test range might indicate about your health:

Conditions that May Affect CA-125 Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence the CA-125 normal range and test results, which should be discussed with your doctor.

• Menstrual cycle variations: CA-125 levels naturally fluctuate during your cycle and are often higher during menstruation.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Can cause elevated levels due to normal physiological changes.
• Non-cancerous conditions: Endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and uterine fibroids can raise levels.
• Liver or heart conditions: Diseases affecting these organs may cause fluid accumulation and elevated readings.
• Severe dehydration: Can concentrate blood substances and potentially alter measurements.
• Certain medications: High-dose biotin supplements may interfere with test accuracy.

How Is a CA-125 Test Done?

The CA-125 test involves a simple blood collection procedure performed by a trained healthcare professional:

• Preparation: An elastic band is tied around your upper arm to make veins more visible.
• Cleaning: The puncture site is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
• Blood Draw: A sterile needle is inserted into your vein to collect the blood sample.
• Sample Collection: About 3 mL of blood is collected in a gel vacutainer tube.
• Completion: The needle is removed, and a bandage is applied to the site.
• Processing: Your sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis using advanced testing methods.

How Should You Prepare for a CA-125 Test?

Preparing for your CA-125 test is straightforward and requires minimal effort on your part:

• No fasting required: You can eat and drink normally before the test.
• Continue regular medications: Unless specifically instructed otherwise by your doctor.
• Inform about supplements: Tell your healthcare provider about any vitamins or supplements, especially biotin.
• Stay hydrated: Drink adequate water before the test to ensure proper blood flow.
• Timing considerations: For premenopausal women, your doctor may recommend specific timing to avoid menstrual cycle variations.

Diseases that a CA-125 Test Can Help Detect

The CA-125 test can assist in detecting and monitoring several health conditions:

• Ovarian cancer: Primary use for monitoring treatment response and detecting recurrence.
• Epithelial ovarian carcinoma: A specific type of ovarian cancer where CA-125 levels are often elevated.
• Endometriosis: A non-cancerous condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease: Infection of female reproductive organs.
• Uterine fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus.
• Other cancers: Including endometrial, fallopian tube, pancreatic, and lung cancers.

CA-125 Tests/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

The following table shows related tests and packages available for comprehensive cancer screening:

CA 125 Test Price in Different Cities

The cost of a CA-125 test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities.

Reference :
• Greg .L. Perkin. et.al. Serum Tumor Markers. American family physicians sep.2003 vol.68 no.6.