Ca 125 in the Follow–Up of Patients with Ovarian Cancer

The value of CA 125 measurement in the diagnosis and follow–up of ovarian cancer was studied in 102 patients. The CA 125 levels were elevated in 88% (3221365) of samples from 82 patients with clinical evidence of disease and in 14% (561403) of samples from 58 patients without clinical evidence. Preoperative levels were elevated in 84% (44152) of the patients, and in 100% of those with stage III and IV disease. In patients with non–mucinous tumors the preoperative levels were elevated in 95% of cases (38140). CA 125 levels were significantly correlated with the course of disease in 88% (36141) of patients whose tumor regressed, and in 87% 120123) of those whose tumor progressed. Before second–look surgery of 48 patients, the sensitivity of the CA 125 test was 35% and the specificity was 86%. The results suggest that, although far from infallible, CA 125 is a useful marker for ovarian cancer. It is useful for monitoring the course of chemotherapy, but normal levels do not rule out the possibility of persist...