How is CA 125 used in the diagnosis and treatment of uterine cancer?
Howard Marc Saul, D.O.: CA125 is a tumor marker which is often used to follow women with ovarian and peritoneal cancer who have had a elevated level before treatment. CA 125 has also been investigated in the care of women with adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. Some preliminary conclusions have emerged: 1. CA 125 is not a screening test for uterine cancer. 2. An elevated level of CA 125 in a woman with uterine cancer, especially in high risk cancers (papillary serous and clear cell types) may indicate advanced disease. 3. CA125 levels may be useful in following women with uterine cancer who have elevated levels at the time of diagnosis or recurrence. You should ask your Gynecologic Oncologist if this blood test makes sense for you.
