From the Research
CA125 levels can increase with uterine cancer, particularly in advanced stages or aggressive subtypes, as evidenced by a study published in 2022 1. This study found that elevated CA125 levels correspond to increased stage, lymphovascular space invasion, and lymph node metastasis in patients with endometrial cancer. The study showed that patients with CA125 levels ≥ 122U/ml had a significantly increased risk of lymph node metastasis, and those with CA125 levels ≥ 175U/ml had a significantly increased risk of lymphovascular space invasion. However, it's essential to note that CA125 is not a reliable diagnostic marker for uterine cancer, as many patients with uterine cancer have normal CA125 levels. Other studies, such as one published in 2018 2, have also found that preoperative CA125 levels are significantly associated with prognostic parameters in uterine papillary serous carcinoma, including disease stage, omental disease, and lymph node metastasis. Given the variability in CA125 levels among uterine cancer patients, a comprehensive evaluation by a gynecologist or gynecologic oncologist is necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment, rather than relying solely on CA125 testing. Other diagnostic methods, including pelvic exams, endometrial biopsies, ultrasounds, and imaging techniques, are typically used to diagnose uterine cancer. CA125 may be used to monitor treatment response or recurrence in some uterine cancer patients who had elevated levels initially, but it's not routinely used for diagnosis. In clinical practice, the most recent and highest quality study, such as the one published in 2022 1, should be prioritized when making decisions about CA125 testing and its implications for uterine cancer management.