The Cancer Antigen 125 (CA-125) test is a blood test that measures the levels of a protein called CA-125 in the blood. Elevated levels of CA-125 can indicate the presence of certain types of cancer, particularly ovarian cancer. However, it is important to note that elevated CA-125 levels can also be caused by other conditions such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids.
The CA-125 test is often used in combination with other tests and imaging studies to help diagnose and monitor ovarian cancer. It may also be used to monitor the response to treatment and detect recurrence of the disease.
It is important to remember that a CA-125 test alone is not enough to diagnose cancer, and further testing is usually required to confirm a diagnosis. Additionally, not all women with ovarian cancer will have elevated CA-125 levels, so the test is not always accurate in detecting the disease.
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