Cancer antigen is a substance present in high amounts in the blood of patients having certain types of cancer. It is normal to have less than 38.6 units per millimeter in the blood. Cancer antigen 125 is a tumor marker used in identifying ovarian cancer when present in high amounts. Cancer antigen 19-9 is a tumor marker, and it indicates a condition of pancreatic cancer when it is present in high amounts.
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What causes elevated levels of CA-19 tumor marker?
Query: Hello doctor, I have a question regarding the significance of an elevated CA-19 tumor marker. I recently had one and that came back as 43 (per laboratory should have been under 34). I do not have cancer and I am wondering what else could cause this elevation? Please help. Read Full »
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. CA 19-9 (cancer antigen) is a tumor marker, but it can be elevated in healthy individual. It can be elevated in benign conditions like pancreatitis, cirrhosis, thyroid disease and inflammatory bowel disease. It can be elevated in various gastrointesti... Read Full »
I have very high CA-125 levels. Please help.
Query: Hello doctor, I have a history of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor detected at the age of 11 years, which was around 12 years back and had undergone an operation for the same. Currently, my CA-125 in serum is 125.37 U/ml. The ultrasound scan revealed large multiloculated well-defined bilateral adn... Read Full »
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. Based on your reports, there seem to be ovarian tumors on both sides. The type of tumor, either benign or malignant, can be revealed only after removal. It may be unrelated to your previous tumor. The value of CA-125 though raised does not indicate malignancy. It is marg... Read Full »
What is the difference between a cystic structure and a cyst?
Query: Hi doctor, I had a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with IV contrast. The radiologist report is as follows. The findings are as follows. There is a 0.9 cm cystic structure in the uncinate process, which is new since the comparative examination with the last year scan report. This should be further ... Read Full »
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. We are here to assist you. The term 'cystic structure' is synonymous with 'cyst'; a cyst is entirely encased by a wall. It's possible that your radiologist observed a structure resembling a cyst with indistinct walls. It's important to note that radiology alone may not p... Read Full »
What does CA-125 level 638 indicate?
Query: Hi doctor, I am a 34 year old female, and I am suffering from severe pain and heavy bleeding every month, during my periods. I need to take painkillers to feel fine, and sometimes, it does not work. My recent medical report shows that I have endometriosis and cysts on both of my ovaries. But, I am s... Read Full »
Answer: Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com. There are few conditions where CA-125 (cancer antigen 125) remains elevated. Some of them are cancerous and some of them benign. Endometriosis is a benign condition, where CA-125 remains high. So, that is the reason for your high CA-125. IVF (in vitro fertilizati... Read Full »
I am positive for BRCA 1. Am I prone to cancer?
Query: Hi doctor, I am 30 years old. I have BRCA1 genetic mutation that is still undergoing more research as they are not sure of the exact risk yet. My mom had breast cancer at the age of 56 and her cousin had the same at the age of 46. They were both positive to hormonal therapy. Another cousin had ova... Read Full »
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. Since you have BRCA1 (breast cancer type 1) positive with a strong family history of breast cancer, there is always a risk of developing cancer. You need to have a regular followup. Ultrasound sometime may miss early changes. Since you have a high tendency of developing... Read Full »
What are the chances of an ovarian cancer to come back after total abdominal hysterectomy?
Query: Hello doctor, I am sending the details of my relative, who had a total abdominal hysterectomy and then took six cycles of chemotherapy. Her recent CA-125 result was 89 units/mL and her USG reports also observe a few new lesions. Would you please guide us on what shall be her subsequent treatment... Read Full »
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com I have gone through your query and have looked at the reports you have provided (attachments removed to protect the patient’s identity). A 53-year-old woman was diagnosed with stage III ovarian carcinoma. And received neoadjuvant chemotherapy, debulking surgery, and s... Read Full »
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