Cancer antigen 125 (CA-125)

Cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) is a protein found on the surface of certain cells, especially in the ovaries. Elevated levels of CA-125 in the blood can indicate the presence of ovarian cancer, but they can also be raised in other conditions like endometriosis, menstruation, or infections. It is often used as a tumor marker to help in the diagnosis, monitor treatment response, and check for recurrence in women with ovarian cancer. However, it is not a definitive test and should be used alongside other diagnostic procedures for accurate assessment.