The normal range for a CA-125 test is generally considered to be between 0 and 35 U/mL (units per milliliter).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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CA-125 Explained: CA-125 (Cancer Antigen 125) is a protein found in higher concentrations in some cancer cells, particularly ovarian cancer cells. This test measures the amount of CA-125 in your blood.
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Normal Range: A result between 0 and 35 U/mL is typically considered within the normal range.
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Elevated Levels: Levels above 35 U/mL may indicate the presence of cancer (most commonly ovarian cancer) or other non-cancerous conditions. It's crucial to remember that elevated CA-125 levels don't always mean cancer.
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Non-Cancerous Conditions that Can Elevate CA-125: Several conditions other than cancer can raise CA-125 levels, including:
- Menstruation
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Uterine fibroids
- Pregnancy
- Liver disease
- Other cancers (e.g., endometrial, fallopian tube, peritoneal)
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Important Considerations:
- Not a Screening Test: The CA-125 test is not recommended as a routine screening test for ovarian cancer in women who don't have symptoms.
- Monitoring Treatment: The CA-125 test is often used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for ovarian cancer and to check for recurrence.
- Individual Variation: Normal ranges can vary slightly between different laboratories. Always discuss your results with your doctor for proper interpretation and guidance.
In summary, a CA-125 level between 0 and 35 U/mL is generally considered normal. However, interpretation should always be done by a healthcare professional in the context of your individual medical history and any other relevant tests.
