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Blutwerte · Marker

CA-125

Cancer Antigen 125 · CA125

Tumormarker & Screening
Einheit:
U/mL

CA-125 measures the level of a glycoprotein antigen in the blood, associated with certain malignancies and other conditions.

Reference Ranges

Reference
0–35U/mL
0
35
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Unit · U/mL

Levels can be influenced by menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and benign conditions.

Overview

Übersicht

Cancer Antigen 125 (CA-125) is a glycoprotein often used as a biomarker in the detection and management of ovarian cancer. It is primarily measured in the blood and is associated with the presence of certain types of cancerous and non-cancerous conditions. Researchers have found that CA-125 is not only elevated in ovarian cancer but also in other conditions such as endometriosis, liver disease, and heart failure, which limits its specificity as a cancer marker. Clinically, CA-125 is significant in monitoring the progression and treatment response in ovarian cancer patients. Elevated levels can indicate the presence of malignancy, while decreasing levels may suggest a positive response to treatment. However, its role in early-stage ovarian cancer screening is limited due to low specificity. In the context of athletic performance and biohacking, CA-125 is not directly relevant, as it does not correlate with physical performance or longevity. However, its emerging role in heart failure management may interest those monitoring cardiovascular health. Researchers observed that CA-125 levels can be influenced by various factors, including menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and benign conditions, which can confound its interpretation. Time-of-day and fasting do not significantly affect CA-125 levels, making it a convenient marker for serial monitoring.

Klinische Bedeutung

Elevated CA-125 levels are often associated with ovarian cancer and can indicate disease progression or recurrence. However, elevated levels can also occur in benign conditions, reducing its specificity.

Dynamics

Trend Interpretation

Rising Values

Progressively rising CA-125 levels may suggest cancer progression or recurrence; re-test in 4 weeks if elevated.

Falling Values

Falling levels often indicate a positive response to treatment.

Re-test Interval

4 weeks if outside optimal range

Etiology

Causes — High & Low

Cause

Elevated Levels

  • Ovarian cancer
  • Endometriosis
  • Liver disease
  • Heart failure
  • Pregnancy
  • Menstruation
Cause

Low Levels

  • Effective cancer treatment
  • Surgical removal of tumor
  • Remission
  • Low baseline levels
  • Non-cancerous health
Protocol

How to Optimize

Lever

Lifestyle

  • Regular monitoring for high-risk individuals
  • Stress management
  • Regular medical check-ups
Lever

Nutrition

  • Balanced diet
  • High-fiber foods
  • Antioxidant-rich foods

Note:

Consult healthcare providers for personalized interventions, especially in cancer management.

Testing Guidelines

✓Fasting Not Required
✓Not Time-Sensitive

Testing Frequency

Every 6-12 months for high-risk individuals or those under treatment.

Interfering Factors

  • Menstrual cycle
  • Pregnancy
  • Benign gynecological conditions

Related Peptides & Hormones

Brca1

Correlated with

hormone or peptide

Open Research Questions

Current research suggests that the biological role of CA-125 in oncogenesis and its reliability for early-stage ovarian cancer diagnosis remain debated, particularly regarding reference ranges and confounding factors such as benign conditions. Emerging research directions include the integration of CA-125 with novel biomarkers like ctDNA for enhanced early detection. However, researchers have not yet established optimal treatment strategies targeting CA-125 or fully understood its prognostic value in heart failure contexts.

36 Research Publications

2,057

Total Citations

14

Human/RCT

4.0

Avg. Influence

2025

Latest

Sort
Filter
#01

Roles of CA125 in diagnosis, prediction, and oncogenesis of ovarian cancer.

ReviewInfluence7.0
356
This study explored the roles of CA-125 in ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment. Researchers found that CA-125 is not reliable for early-stage diagnosis but is valuable for evaluating treatment efficacy and prognosis. The study emphasizes the need for a better understanding of CA-125's biological role in cancer development.
View on PubMed
#02

Molecular Biomarkers for the Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer.

ReviewInfluence10.0
251
This study examined the role of CA-125 as a biomarker for ovarian cancer detection. Researchers found that while CA-125 is widely used, it has low specificity, leading to the development of multimarker panels to improve diagnostic efficacy. Ongoing research is focused on novel biomarkers for earlier detection of ovarian cancer.
View on PubMed
#03

Clinical Use of Cancer Biomarkers in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: Updated Guidelines From the European Group on Tumor Markers.

ReviewInfluence7.0
232
Researchers updated guidelines on the clinical use of CA-125 in epithelial ovarian cancer, noting its low sensitivity and specificity for screening. They recommended CA-125 for monitoring treatment response but cautioned against its use as a standalone diagnostic tool.
View on PubMed
#04

CA125 in ovarian cancer.

ReviewInfluence6.0
219
This study reviewed the clinical use of CA-125 in ovarian cancer screening. Researchers found that while CA-125 is recommended for high-risk women, its sensitivity and specificity are limited. The study also discusses the potential immunological roles of CA-125 and its implications for targeted therapies.
View on PubMed
#05

Circulating tumor DNA as an early cancer detection tool.

ReviewInfluence2.0
213
This study focused on circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) as a potential early cancer detection tool. Researchers found that ctDNA could be combined with biomarkers like CA-125 to enhance early detection of cancers without established screening methods. The study highlights the need to overcome challenges before ctDNA can be integrated into healthcare.
View on PubMed
#06

Clinical potential of proteomics in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

ReviewInfluence1.0
118
This study assessed the clinical potential of proteomics in ovarian cancer diagnosis. Researchers found that CA-125 lacks high positive predictive value and is more effective when combined with other tests. The study highlights the promise of proteomic technologies in developing sensitive and specific biomarkers for ovarian cancer.
View on PubMed
#07

CA-125 ELIMination Rate Constant K (KELIM) Is a Marker of Chemosensitivity in Patients with Ovarian Cancer: Results from the Phase II CHIVA Trial.

HumanInfluence7.0
113
This study evaluated the CA-125 elimination rate constant (KELIM) as a marker of chemosensitivity in ovarian cancer. Researchers found that KELIM is a significant predictor of treatment success and patient prognosis. The study suggests that KELIM could guide decision-making regarding treatment strategies for ovarian cancer patients.
View on PubMed
#08

Diagnosis of endometriosis.

ReviewInfluence2.0
106
This study examined the challenges in diagnosing endometriosis. Researchers found that serum CA-125 is the best available marker but is only elevated in advanced stages, making it unsuitable for routine screening. The study suggests that a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging techniques is necessary for accurate diagnosis.
View on PubMed
#09

Cervical Cancer Markers: Epigenetics and microRNAs.

ReviewInfluence4.0
101
Researchers discussed the use of tumor markers like CA-125 in cervical cancer diagnosis but noted the necessity for new markers with higher sensitivity and specificity. They focused on the potential of microRNAs as early biomarkers.
View on PubMed
#10

BRCA genes: BRCA 1 and BRCA 2.

ReviewInfluence2.0
74
This study reviewed the role of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in breast and ovarian cancer. Researchers found that women with BRCA mutations are at increased risk for early-onset cancer and that monitoring includes serum CA-125 levels for ovarian cancer screening. The study emphasizes the importance of genetic testing in cancer risk assessment.
View on PubMed

Clinical Trials (17)

17

Total Trials

45,593

Total Enrolled

Transforming Ovarian Cancer Diagnostic Pathways

NCT06129968RECRUITING
Sponsor

Professor Sudha Sundar

Enrollment

34,000

Started

2024

Primary outcome

Sensitivity of ROMA versus CA125 in early stage ovarian cancer

Ovarian Cancer

Prognostic Value of MRD Detection in CA125 Non-sensitive Ovarian Cancer Patients

Sponsor

West China Second University Hospital

Enrollment

35

Started

2023

Primary outcome

The prognostic value of MRD

Ovarian Cancer

Tinzaparin And Biomarkers After Neoadjuvant Treatment of Ovarian Cancer

NCT05284552Phase 2RECRUITING
Sponsor

University Hospital, Linkoeping

Enrollment

40

Started

2022

Primary outcome

Changes in serum levels of CA-125

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Circulating Tumor DNA as an Early Marker of Recurrence and Treatment Efficacy in Ovarian Carcinoma

Sponsor

Institut Paoli-Calmettes

Enrollment

150

Started

2018

Primary outcome

Prognostic value of ctDNA increase for predicting a subsequent clinical, radiological (RECIST v1.1) or biological (CA-125 according to GCIG criteria) diagnosis of disease relapse.

Ovarian Carcinoma

Development of a Decision Aid to Facilitate Ovarian Cancer Patient's Choices Regarding Biomarker CA125

NCT03004391COMPLETED
Sponsor

Vejle Hospital

Enrollment

25

Started

2017

Primary outcome

Patient uncertainty as to routine measurement of CA125 is measured by combined questionnaires CollaboRATE and Decisional Conflict Scale.

Ovarian Cancer

CA-125 and Severity of Pre-Eclampsia

Sponsor

Ain Shams Maternity Hospital

Enrollment

120

Started

2016

Primary outcome

increase serum CA-125 in pre-eclamptic patients

Pre-Eclampsia

Prospective Multicenter Study in Patients With a Tumor Benign Ovarian Presumed on the Use of Algorithms Such as Roma and RMI and Tumor Markers Such as CA125 and HE4

NCT02326064COMPLETED
Sponsor

Centre Hospitalier Departemental Vendee

Enrollment

221

Started

2015

Primary outcome

Tumor Marker CA125

Ovarian TumorOvarian Cancer

The Prognostic and Predictive Value of the CA-125 Marker in Lung Cancer Monitoring

Sponsor

E-DA Hospital

Enrollment

200

Started

2015

Primary outcome

The diagnostic Value of the cancer antigen-125 in lung cancer

Lung Cancer

Diagnostic Utility of Culdocentesis in Patients With a Suspicious Adnexal Mass

NCT02109367COMPLETED
Sponsor

Southern Illinois University

Enrollment

52

Started

2014

Primary outcome

HE4 and CA-125 from cul-de-sac wash

Ovarian Cancer

E7080 in Combination With Carboplatin + Gemcitabine Versus Carboplatin + Gemcitabine Alone as Second Line Therapy in Patients With Platinum-Sensitive Recurrent Ovarian Cancer by CA125

NCT01133756Phase 1/2TERMINATED
Sponsor

Eisai Inc.

Enrollment

7

Started

2010

Primary outcome

Number of Participants With Dose Limiting Toxicity (DLT)

Ovarian Cancer

An Open Label Extension Study of the Efficacy of MORAb-003

NCT01018563Phase 2TERMINATED
Sponsor

Morphotek

Enrollment

3

Started

2010

Primary outcome

Duration of Ovarian Tumor Marker (Cancer Antigen 125 [CA125]) Response

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Study of AMG 479 as Second Line Therapy in Patients With Recurrent Platinum-sensitive Ovarian Cancer

NCT00719212Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Translational Research in Oncology

Enrollment

61

Started

2009

Primary outcome

Objective Response Rate (ORR) Investigator Assessment: % of Patients in the Group Who Achieve a Complete Response(CR) or Partial Response(PR) According to RECIST Criteria and GCIG CA125 Response Criteria. - Assessments of the Response by the Investigators

Ovarian Neoplasms

Efficacy Study of Recombinant Interleukin-21 in the Treatment of Ovarian Cancer

NCT00523380Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Novo Nordisk A/S

Enrollment

10

Started

2007

Primary outcome

Efficacy of treatment assessed by overall response rate (RR). RR measured and recorded using imaging techniques, CA-125 blood samples and pelvic examination.

CancerOvarian Cancer

YKL-40 in Serum Samples From Patients With Newly Diagnosed Stage III-IV Ovarian Epithelial, Primary Peritoneal Cavity, or Fallopian Tube Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy

NCT00899093TERMINATED
Sponsor

Gynecologic Oncology Group

Enrollment

2,500

Started

2007

Primary outcome

CA125 measurements

Fallopian Tube AdenocarcinomaFallopian Tube Clear Cell AdenocarcinomaFallopian Tube Endometrioid AdenocarcinomaFallopian Tube Mucinous AdenocarcinomaFallopian Tube Serous AdenocarcinomaFallopian Tube Transitional Cell CarcinomaMalignant Ovarian Brenner TumorMalignant Ovarian Clear Cell TumorMalignant Ovarian Endometrioid TumorMalignant Ovarian Mixed Epithelial TumorMalignant Ovarian Mucinous TumorMalignant Ovarian NeoplasmMalignant Ovarian Serous TumorMalignant Ovarian Transitional Cell TumorOvarian AdenocarcinomaPrimary Peritoneal Serous AdenocarcinomaStage IIIA Fallopian Tube CancerStage IIIA Ovarian CancerStage IIIA Primary Peritoneal CancerStage IIIB Fallopian Tube CancerStage IIIB Ovarian CancerStage IIIB Primary Peritoneal CancerStage IIIC Fallopian Tube CancerStage IIIC Ovarian CancerStage IIIC Primary Peritoneal CancerStage IV Fallopian Tube CancerStage IV Ovarian CancerStage IV Primary Peritoneal CancerUndifferentiated Fallopian Tube CarcinomaUndifferentiated Ovarian Carcinoma

Removal of the Ovaries/Fallopian Tubes and CA-125 Screening to Reduce the Risk of Ovarian Cancer in Women at Increased Genetic Risk

NCT00043472COMPLETED
Sponsor

National Cancer Institute (NCI)

Enrollment

40

Started

2003

Primary outcome

To determine the prospective incidence of ovarian cancer, breastcancer, primary peritoneal carcinoma, and all cancer among women at increased risk of ovarian cancer, with a special emphasis on womenwho are known BRCA1/2 mutation carriers

Breast CancerOvarian Cancer

A Study to Evaluate the Effect of HER2 Activation on rhuMAb 2C4 (Pertuzumab) in Subjects With Advanced Ovarian Cancer

NCT00058552Phase 2COMPLETED
Sponsor

Genentech, Inc.

Enrollment

129

Started

2003

Primary outcome

Percentage of Participants With Best Overall Response of Complete Response (CR) or Partial Response (PR) Determined by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) Version (v) 1.1 or Cancer Antigen 125 (CA-125) Changes

Ovarian Cancer

Use of CA125 and Complementary Biomarkers for the Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer in Low Risk Women

NCT00539162RECRUITING
Sponsor

M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Enrollment

8,000

Started

2001

Primary outcome

Rate of increase in CA 125 levels and other tumor markers over time

Ovarian Cancer

Publication Trend

Research publications about CA-125 over time

6total
2
'18
1
'19
1
'21
2
'22

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