Determination of antigen ca 125 in blood serum. Tumor markers are the norm, is it possible not to be afraid of cancer? Combinations of tumor markers for the diagnosis of cancer of various organs

In the diagnosis of oncological pathology, a huge variety of examination methods is used, ranging from examination by a doctor to modern laboratory and instrumental methods. In oncology, as a branch of medicine, the golden rule applies:

The earlier an oncological disease was diagnosed and treatment started, the more favorable the prognosis for the patient.

It is for this reason that active searches are underway for even minimal changes in the body that would indicate the presence of tumor cells. In this regard, excellent results were obtained by specific biochemical studies that allow the detection of the presence of certain tumor markers, in particular, CA 125.

According to modern medical views, tumor markers are a group of complex substances of a protein nature that are direct products of the vital activity of tumor cells or are released by normal cells during cancer invasion. These substances are found in biological fluids both in oncological diseases and in pathologies not related to oncology.

Remember! Detection of window markers (in particular, CA 125) in biological fluids (blood, urine) is not a 100% criterion for the presence of oncological pathology in the body. It allows only to suspect the possibility of the onset of the disease and in the future, with the help of other instrumental and laboratory methods, confirm or refute the oncological diagnosis.

On the basis of the presence of tumor markers alone, it is incompetent to make a diagnosis of cancer.

What does CA 125 mean

Oncomarker CA 125 is a specific marker that helps to diagnose ovarian cancer at the earliest stage.

Important!The threshold or discriminatory level of CA 125 in the blood plasma in women is up to 35 units / ml. In healthy men (average) - up to 10 units / ml

CA 125 is a complex compound of protein and polysaccharide.

It is an antigen of a certain type of epithelium (fetal tissues), but is present fine:

• In the tissues of the unchanged endometrium and the uterine cavity as part of the mucinous and serous fluids, but it never enters the blood plasma while maintaining biological barriers.
• Minimal amounts of CA 125 are produced by the mesothelial lining of the pleura and peritoneum, the epithelium of the pericardium, bronchi, testes, fallopian tubes, gallbladder, intestines, pancreas, stomach, broncho, kidneys.
• An increase in the discrimination level among women is possible in the first trimester of pregnancy and during menstruation.

Rules for donating blood for oncomarker CA 125

When donating blood to the CA 125, follow these recommendations:

1. Between blood sampling and the last meal should be at least 8 hours.
2. Do not smoke for 30 minutes before blood sampling.
3. In order to avoid distortion of the results, women should be tested for CA 125 on the II-III day after the end of the monthly bleeding.

Analysis results for CA 125: interpretation

If during your examination you found an increase in the content of the CA 125 oncomarker over 35 units / ml, then again, you should not panic and “put an end to yourself”. It is important to undergo an additional examination to identify the reasons for the increase in the concentration of the marker.

Clinical data show that exceeding the discriminatory SA level is associated with a range of non-oncological diseases, including:

• – 84%
• – 82%
• Inflammation of the uterine appendages - 80%
• Dysmenorrhea - 72 to 75%
• Group of predominantly sexual infections - 70%
• Peritonitis, pleurisy, pericarditis - 70%
• Cirrhosis of the liver and hepatitis, long-term chronic - from 68 to 70%

All of the above diseases can cause an increase in the level of SA up to 100 units/ml, which is a kind of threshold for the absence of malignant neoplasms in the body.

The results of analyzes of the SA marker over 100 units/ml . - an alarming factor that makes one suspect the development of malignant neoplasms in the body and resort to additional diagnostic measures.

Remember! In the presence of high levels of the SA marker, repeated tests are carried out and often - more than one. As a result, the results obtained precisely in dynamics are evaluated, which makes it possible to obtain a more reliable picture.

The CA 125 tumor marker is not a strictly specific marker produced only in ovarian cancer.

It also occurs in such types of tumors as:

• malignant tumors of the ovaries, endometrium, fallopian tubes - 96-98%;
• malignant neoplasms of the breast - 92%;
• pancreatic cancer - 90%;
• malignant tumors of the stomach and rectum - 88%;
• and liver - 85%;
• other types of malignant neoplasms - 65-70%

Note: repeated high values ​​of the CA 125 marker with an increase in indicators over time are an alarming factor in relation to a wide range of malignant tumors. This should direct the doctor to the most thorough search in order to establish an accurate diagnosis and use any informative examination methods for this.

When cancer cells appear in human blood, tumor markers are formed, which are the waste product of a cancerous tumor. The antigens produced by healthy cells during tumor invasion consist of:

• enzymes;
• antigen and hormones;
• proteins;
• exchange products.

Today, there are more than two hundred types of oncological markers, while only one tenth is suitable for diagnosis. This number also includes the oncomarker ca 125.

Oncomarker sa 125 - what does it mean?

Oncomarker 125 is a protein that belongs to the class of glycoproteins. It is found in the bronchi, pleura, pancreas, pericardium, and other organs. An elevated tumor marker ca 125 is one of the indicators that y. However, a high value of the oncomarker ca 125 is not always a confirmation that the body is in the process of developing an oncological disease. To clarify the diagnosis, confirm it or refute it, additional examinations are always prescribed.

Oncomarkers ca 125, being an antigen of a certain type of cells, can be detected in the tissues of the uterus and endometrium. Concentrating in liquids, the tumor marker 125 ca does not penetrate into the blood plasma. Exceptional cases are the period after menstruation or the violation of natural barriers after a woman has had an abortion.

When is the ca 125 tumor marker test performed?

Everyone who is at risk should regularly undergo examinations, taking an analysis to determine the level of ca 125 tumor marker. Analyzes are given once a year. Patients at risk include:

• specialists of enterprises working in hazardous production conditions;
• people living in areas with unfavorable environmental conditions;
• those who have a hereditary predisposition to cancer.

How to prepare for blood donation?

For diagnostic studies, modern equipment is used today. However, this is not enough to be able to obtain reliable data. It is important for the patient to properly and thoroughly prepare. In the process of preparation, it is important to consider the following nuances:

• blood is always donated on an empty stomach, so the last meal should be no later than eight to ten hours before the procedure (blood sampling);
• clean water can be left as drinks: coffee or tea, other drinks can significantly affect the results of the study and distort them;
• smokers should stop smoking three days before the test, it is also important to stop drinking alcohol;
• the reasons for the growth of the oncomarker ca 125 may be the intake of fatty, salty or fried foods, which must be excluded a day before the upcoming study;
• the reason for the increase in the oncomarker ca 125 is the intake of certain types of medications, so it is important to consult with your doctor before taking them;
• within a few days preceding the delivery of the analysis, it is necessary to abandon any kind of physical activity;
• try to remain calm and not nervous before and during the blood sampling, and during the procedure.

When is it better to take the oncomarker ca 125? Women should undergo a study 2-3 days after the end of bleeding (1st phase of the menstrual cycle).

Compliance with these recommendations will allow you to immediately get the right result of research. The results may be influenced by factors such as x-ray studies performed the day before, ultrasound, bronchoscopy, and sampling for biopsy.

In cases where the patient has already been treated, blood tests for oncomarkers ca 125 are carried out at least once every three months.

After sampling, the patient's blood is sent to the laboratory for research and subsequent decoding. It requires high professionalism from a specialist. The thoroughness with which the result of the analysis for the oncomarker ca 125 is deciphered determines whether errors will be excluded and treatment will be prescribed correctly.

Conducting additional examinations, MRI, gastroscopy, laboratory blood and urine tests, ultrasound allows the doctor to establish the true cause of the antigen surge in the patient's body.

Tumor marker ca 125 increased: causes

As a rule, if the tumor marker ca 125 is higher than normal, this means with a high probability that the woman has ovarian cancer. A two-fold increase in the norm of a tumor marker is the result of ovarian cancer. However, this is not the only disease that is detected in the study. If the tumor marker ca 125 is elevated, this may be evidence that the patient is developing breast cancer, a disease of the fallopian tubes, uterus, and endometrium. In addition, a deviation from the norm may be a confirmation that the patient has cancer of the rectum, pancreas, stomach, liver, or lungs.

Important! In the acute course of the disease, any of its varieties, the level of antigens does not exceed 100 U / ml.

Statistics show that in patients suffering from ovarian cancer, a high level of antigens is observed only in 80 percent of cases. The same percentage is observed in other types of malignant tumors. Therefore, it is very important, if oncology is suspected, to take a blood test, which is an integral part of the whole complex of examinations. The result of the oncomarker ca 125 will allow you to identify foci with the highest risk of developing cancer and prescribe therapy.

During menstruation, its indicator may increase slightly, but such a deviation is the norm. In pregnant women, it is important to take a blood test in the first trimester to determine more complex problems.

Reasons for deviation from the norm may be:

• endometriosis - a disease most common in gynecology, characterized by the growth of endometrial cells;
• ovarian cyst - formation on the walls of the ovaries with fluid inside;
• inflammatory diseases of the ovaries, the causes of which are microbes;
• sexually transmitted diseases;
• pleurisy;
• acute hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver;
• pancreatitis.

Such a variety of pathologies indicates the specificity of the oncomarker ca 125. Therefore, in addition to this analysis, the patient is assigned additional laboratory and diagnostic tests to establish the correct diagnosis.

When does deviation occur?

The increase occurs in diseases such as hepatitis, chronic pancreatitis, pleurisy, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs.

A slight deviation from the norm is possible during the period when the patient is sick with ARVI. Studies show that the number of patients in whom the concentration of oncological markers is increased is 1 percent. In 6 percent of the examined, an increased rate confirmed benign neoplasms.

When the tumor marker ca 125 is increased by 2 times, this may indicate the development of the following types of tumors in a patient:

• malignant neoplasms of the endometrium, ovaries, fallopian tubes - in 96-98 percent of cases;
• – 92 percent;
• malignant tumors of the rectum, stomach, pancreas - in 88-90 percent of cases;
• , lungs - 85% of the examined patients.

If, upon re-examination, the decryption shows a high value, which continues to grow in dynamics, this is an alarming factor. Such results should serve as a reason for a more thorough search by the doctor of the problem and the establishment of an accurate diagnosis. For this, the patient is assigned any research methods that will be effective and informative for establishing a diagnosis.

Important! Every woman is at risk. Timely analysis will allow to exclude an oncological diagnosis, to detect the disease in the early stages.

Indicators for various diseases

One of the reasons for the increase in the tumor marker ca 125 is an ovarian cyst. If the upper normal value in the absence of a cyst does not exceed 35 U / ml, then the presence of such formations in the patient may indicate an indicator of 60 U / ml.

An ovarian cyst requires special attention. You can not let the disease take its course and hope that everything will pass by itself! The line between an ovarian cyst and cancer (ovarian cancer) is very thin. All women who have reached the age of menopause are at increased risk. During this period, the risk of developing a tumor greatly increases. Therefore, it is important to monitor the level of ca 125, and take an analysis at least once a year. Even if the cyst was removed surgically, it is important to monitor the level of the marker in order to be able to take all necessary measures in time and prevent the development of a tumor.

Many are interested in what the results of the analysis for oncomarker ca 125 can be in endometriosis.

Endometriosis is one of the most common diseases affecting women between the ages of 20 and 40. The endometrium, the inner layer of the uterus, begins to gradually grow, going beyond the uterus. Patients experience acute pain, an increase in the abdominal cavity. This disease is dangerous because endometrial cells can degenerate into malignant ones. A blood test for tumor markers ca 125 reveals endometriosis, since its content can reach 100 U / ml, which is ten times higher than normal.

Treatment of endometriosis should not be delayed. An effective method of treating the disease is the appointment of hormonal therapy, in more complex cases, patients are shown surgical treatment.

With hormonal disorders in a woman, uterine fibroids can occur. This benign neoplasm in the muscular layer of the uterus is, according to research data, up to 25 percent of all gynecological diseases. With uterine myoma, the maximum value of marker 125 can reach 110 U/ml.

It is possible to confirm the diagnosis only by conducting a comprehensive examination of the patient. The doctor must prescribe MRI and ultrasound.

At the onset of menopause, the body of any woman becomes vulnerable. Since endometriosis, menstruation or pregnancy cannot be the reason for exceeding the norm of oncomarkers 125 at this age, the development of a malignant tumor is likely. In case of deviations from the norm, it is important to complete a full course of examination, and continue to monitor the level of antigen concentration in the blood.

Antigen scores and pregnancy

In the first trimester of pregnancy, a woman's body is subject to the strongest hormonal changes and changes. Against the background of those physiological changes that occur in the body of a young mother, an increase in tumor marker 125 is also observed. This is due to the ability of the fetus to produce tumor markers. The results of studies may show the upper limits of the norm, in some cases even exceed it. However, there is no reason for concern. It is important to conduct additional studies and after a while to pass a second blood test. Detecting cancerous tumors at an early stage is a very difficult task. Today, this problem is solved with the help of oncomarker analysis. Its conduct allows you to identify proteins produced by cancer cells. Each type of malignant tumor has a specific set of labels. Oncomarker ca 125 allows to detect ovarian cancer.

Conducting a study allows you to determine the type of tumor, benign or malignant, whether the prescribed therapy is effective, to control the patient's condition.

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Expert advice is required!

Characteristics of various oncomarkers and interpretation of test results

Consider the diagnostic significance, specificity for neoplasms of various organs and indications for determination tumor markers used in clinical practice.

Alpha fetoprotein (AFP)

This tumor marker is quantitative, that is, it is normally present in a small concentration in the blood of a child and an adult of any gender, but its level rises sharply with neoplasms, as well as in women during pregnancy. Therefore, the determination of the level of AFP is used in the framework laboratory diagnostics to detect cancer in both sexes, as well as in pregnant women to determine abnormalities in the development of the fetus.

The level of AFP in the blood increases with malignant tumors of the testicles in men, ovaries in women and liver in both sexes. Also, the concentration of AFP is increased with liver metastases. Respectively, indications for the determination of AFP are the following conditions:

• suspicion of primary crayfish liver or liver metastases (to distinguish between metastases from primary liver cancer, it is recommended to determine the level of CEA in the blood simultaneously with AFP);
• Suspicion of malignancy in the testicles of men or ovaries of women (recommended for accuracy diagnostics in combination with AFP to determine the level of hCG);
• Monitoring the effectiveness of ongoing therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma of the liver and tumors of the testicles or ovaries (simultaneous determination of AFP and hCG levels is carried out);
• Tracking the condition of people suffering from cirrhosis of the liver, in order to detect liver cancer early;
• Monitoring the condition of people who have a high risk of developing genital tumors (in the presence of cryptorchidism, benign tumors or ovarian cysts, etc.) in order to detect them early.

1. Male children:

• 1 - 30 days of life - less than 16400 ng / ml;
• 1 month - 1 year - less than 28 ng / ml;
• 2 - 3 years - less than 7.9 ng / ml;
• 4 - 6 years - less than 5.6 ng / ml;
• 7 - 12 years - less than 3.7 ng / ml;
• 13 - 18 years - less than 3.9 ng / ml.

• 1 - 30 days of life - less than 19000 ng / ml;
• 1 month - 1 year - less than 77 ng / ml;
• 2 - 3 years - less than 11 ng / ml;
• 4 - 6 years - less than 4.2 ng / ml;
• 7 - 12 years - less than 5.6 ng / ml;
• 13 - 18 years old - less than 4.2 ng / ml.

The above values ​​of the level of AFP in the blood serum are typical for a person in the absence of oncological diseases. If the level of AFP rises above the age norm, this may indicate the presence of the following cancers:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma;
• Metastases in the liver;
• Germinogenic tumors of the ovaries or testicles;
• Tumors of the large intestine;
• Tumors of the pancreas;
• Tumors of the lungs.

• Cirrhosis of the liver;
• Blockage of the bile ducts;
• Alcoholic liver damage;
• Telangiectasia syndrome;
• hereditary tyrosinemia.

Chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

Like AFP, hCG is a quantitative tumor marker, the level of which is significantly increased in malignant neoplasms compared with the concentration observed in the absence of cancer. However, an elevated level of chorionic gonadotropin can also be the norm - this is typical for pregnancy. But in all other periods of life, both in men and women, the concentration of this substance remains low, and its increase indicates the presence of a focus of tumor growth.

HCG levels are elevated in ovarian and testicular carcinomas, chorionadenomas, hydatidiform moles, and germinomas. Therefore, in practical medicine, the determination of the concentration of hCG in the blood performed under the following conditions:

• Suspicion of hydatidiform mole in a pregnant woman;
• Neoplasms in the pelvis, detected during ultrasound (the level of hCG is determined to distinguish a benign tumor from a malignant one);
• The presence of prolonged bleeding after an abortion or childbirth (the level of hCG is determined to detect or exclude choriocarcinoma);
• Neoplasms in the testicles of men (the level of hCG is determined to detect or exclude germ cell tumors).

1. Men: less than 2 IU/ml at any age.

2. Women:

• Non-pregnant women of reproductive age (before menopause) - less than 1 IU / ml;
• Non-pregnant postmenopausal women - up to 7.0 IU / ml.

• Cystic drift or recurrence of hydatidiform mole;
• Choriocarcinoma or its recurrence;
• Seminoma;
• Teratoma of the ovary;
• Tumors of the digestive tract;
• Tumors of the lungs;
• Tumors of the kidneys;
• Tumors of the uterus.

• Pregnancy;
• Less than a week ago, the pregnancy was interrupted (miscarriage, abortion, etc.);
• Taking hCG drugs.

Beta-2 microglobulin

The level of beta-2 microglobulin is elevated in B-cell lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma, and therefore the determination of its concentration is used to predict the course of the disease in oncohematology. Respectively, in practical medicine, the determination of the level of beta-2 microglobulin is carried out in the following cases:

• Forecasting the course and evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment of myeloma, B-lymphomas, non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, chronic lymphocytic leukemia;
• Predicting the course and evaluating the effectiveness of therapy for cancer of the stomach and intestines (in combination with other tumor markers);
• Evaluation of the status and effectiveness of treatment in patients suffering from HIV/AIDS or undergoing organ transplantation.

• multiple myeloma;
• B-cell lymphoma;
• Waldenström's disease;
• non-Hodgkin's lymphomas;
• Hodgkin's disease;
• The presence of HIV / AIDS in a person;
• Systemic autoimmune diseases (Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus);
• Hepatitis;
• Cirrhosis of the liver;

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) antigen

It is a tumor marker of squamous cell carcinoma of various localization. The level of this tumor marker is determined to assess the effectiveness of therapy and to detect squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, nasopharynx, ear and lungs. In the absence of cancer, the concentration of squamous cell carcinoma antigen may also increase with renal failure, bronchial asthma, or pathology of the liver and biliary tract.

Accordingly, the determination of the level of antigen of squamous cell carcinoma in practical medicine is carried out for the effectiveness of the treatment of cancer of the cervix, lungs, esophagus, head and neck, organs of the genitourinary system, as well as their relapses and metastases.

Normal (not elevated) for people of any age and gender, the concentration of squamous cell carcinoma antigen in the blood is less than 1.5 ng / ml. The level of the tumor marker above the norm is typical for the following oncological pathologies:

• Cervical cancer;
• Lungs' cancer;
• head and neck cancer;
• Esophageal carcinoma;
• endometrial cancer;
• ovarian cancer;
• cancer of the vulva;
• Vaginal cancer.

• Inflammatory diseases of the liver and biliary tract;
• kidney failure;

Neuron-specific enolase (NSE, NSE)

This substance is formed in cells of neuroendocrine origin, and therefore its concentration can increase in various diseases of the nervous system, including tumors, traumatic and ischemic brain injuries, etc.

In particular, a high level of NSE is characteristic of lung and bronchial cancer, neuroblastoma, and leukemia. A moderate increase in the concentration of NSE is characteristic of non-cancer lung diseases. Therefore, the determination of the level of this oncomarker is most often used to assess the effectiveness of therapy for small cell lung carcinoma.

Currently determination of the level of NSE in practical medicine is carried out in the following cases:

• To distinguish between small cell and non-small cell lung cancer;
• For predicting the course, monitoring the effectiveness of therapy and early detection of recurrence or metastases in small cell lung cancer;
• If you suspect the presence of thyroid carcinoma, pheochromocytoma, tumors of the intestine and pancreas;
• Suspicion of neuroblastoma in children;
• As an additional diagnostic marker, semin (in combination with hCG).

An increased level of NSE is observed in the following cancers:

• neuroblastoma;
• Retinoblastoma;
• Small cell lung cancer;
• medullary thyroid cancer;
• Pheochromocytoma;
• Glucagonoma;
• Seminoma.

• Renal or liver failure;
• Pulmonary tuberculosis;
• Chronic lung diseases of a non-tumor nature;
• hemolytic disease;
• Damage to the nervous system of traumatic or ischemic origin (for example, craniocerebral trauma, cerebrovascular accidents, strokes, etc.);
• Dementia (dementia).

Oncomarker Cyfra CA 21-1 (fragment of cytokeratin 19)

It is a marker of squamous cell carcinoma of various localization - lungs, bladder, cervix. Determination of the concentration of the oncomarker Cyfra CA 21-1 in practical medicine is carried out in the following cases:

• To distinguish malignant tumors from other masses in the lungs;
• To monitor the effectiveness of therapy and detect relapses of lung cancer;
• To control the course of bladder cancer.

Normal (not elevated) the concentration of the tumor marker Cyfra CA 21-1 in the blood of people of any age and gender is no more than 3.3 ng/ml. An elevated level of this oncomarker is observed in the following diseases:

1. Malignant tumors:

• non-small cell lung carcinoma;
• Squamous cell lung carcinoma;
• Muscle-invasive carcinoma of the bladder.

• Chronic lung diseases (COPD, tuberculosis, etc.);
• kidney failure;
• Liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis, etc.);
• Smoking.

Tumor marker HE4

It is a specific marker for ovarian and endometrial cancer. HE4 is more sensitive to ovarian cancer than CA 125, especially in the early stages. In addition, the concentration of HE4 does not increase in endometriosis, inflammatory gynecological diseases, and benign tumors of the female genital area, as a result of which this tumor marker is highly specific for ovarian and endometrial cancer. Due to these features, HE4 is an important and accurate marker of ovarian cancer, which makes it possible to detect a tumor in the early stages in 90% of cases.

Determination of the concentration of HE4 in practical medicine is carried out in the following cases:

• To distinguish cancer from neoplasms of non-oncological nature, localized in the small pelvis;
• Early screening primary diagnosis of ovarian cancer (HE4 is determined against the background of a normal or elevated level of CA 125);
• Monitoring the effectiveness of therapy for epithelial ovarian cancer;
• Early detection of relapses and metastases of ovarian cancer;
• detection of breast cancer;
• Detection of endometrial cancer.

• Women under 40 - less than 60.5 pmol / l;
• Women 40 - 49 years old - less than 76.2 pmol / l;
• Women 50 - 59 years old - less than 74.3 pmol / l;
• Women 60 - 69 years old - less than 82.9 pmol / l;
• Women over 70 years old - less than 104 pmol / l.

Given the high specificity and sensitivity of HE4, the detection of an increased concentration of this marker in the blood in almost 100% of cases indicates the presence of ovarian cancer or endometriosis in a woman. Therefore, if the concentration of HE4 is increased, then the treatment of oncological disease should be started as soon as possible.

Protein S-100

This tumor marker is specific for melanoma. And, in addition, the level of S-100 protein in the blood increases with damage to brain structures of any origin. Respectively, determination of the concentration of S-100 protein in practical medicine is carried out in the following cases:

• Monitoring the effectiveness of therapy, detection of relapses and metastases of melanoma;
• Clarification of the depth of damage to brain tissue against the background of various diseases of the central nervous system.

An increase in the level of this protein is noted in the following diseases:

1. Oncological pathology:

• Malignant melanoma of the skin.

• Damage to brain tissue of any origin (traumatic, ischemic, after bleeding, stroke, etc.);
• Inflammatory diseases of any organs;
• Intense physical activity.

Oncomarker SA 72-4

The tumor marker CA 72-4 is also called the tumor marker of the stomach, since it has the greatest specificity and sensitivity in relation to malignant tumors of this organ. In general, the CA 72-4 tumor marker is characteristic of cancers of the stomach, colon, lungs, ovaries, endometrium, pancreas, and mammary glands.

Determination of the concentration of the oncomarker CA 72-4 in practical medicine is carried out in the following cases:

• For early primary detection of ovarian cancer (in combination with CA 125 marker) and gastric cancer (in combination with CEA and CA 19-9 markers);
• Monitoring the effectiveness of therapy in gastric cancer (in combination with CEA and CA 19-9 markers), ovaries (in combination with CA 125 marker) and cancer of the colon and rectum.

An increased concentration of the oncomarker CA 72-4 is detected in the following tumors and non-oncological diseases:

1. Oncological pathologies:

• Stomach cancer;
• ovarian cancer;
• Colon and rectal cancer;
• Lungs' cancer;
• breast cancer;
• Pancreas cancer.

• endometrioid tumors;
• Cirrhosis of the liver;
• Benign tumors of the digestive tract;
• lung diseases;
• Diseases of the ovaries;
• Rheumatic diseases (heart defects, rheumatism of the joints, etc.);
• Diseases of the mammary gland.

Oncomarker CA 242

The tumor marker CA 242 is also called the gastrointestinal tumor marker because it is specific for malignant tumors of the digestive tract. An increase in the level of this marker is detected in cancer of the pancreas, stomach, colon and rectum. For the most accurate detection of malignant tumors of the gastrointestinal tract, it is recommended to combine the CA 242 tumor marker with markers CA19-9 (for pancreatic and colon cancer) and CA 50 (for colon cancer).

Determination of the concentration of the oncomarker CA 242 in practical medicine is carried out in the following cases:

• If there is a suspicion of cancer of the pancreas, stomach, colon or rectum (CA 242 is determined in combination with CA 19-9 and CA 50);
• To evaluate the effectiveness of therapy for cancer of the pancreas, stomach, colon and rectum;
• For prognosis and early detection of relapses and metastases of pancreatic, stomach, colon and rectal cancer.

An increase in the level of CA 242 is observed in the following oncological and non-oncological pathologies:

1. Oncological pathology:

• Tumor of the pancreas;
• Stomach cancer;
• Cancer of the colon or rectum.

• Diseases of the rectum, stomach, liver, pancreas and biliary tract.

Oncomarker SA 15-3

The CA 15-3 tumor marker is also called a breast marker, since it has the highest specificity for cancer of this particular organ. Unfortunately, CA 15-3 is specific not only for breast cancer, therefore its determination is not recommended for the early detection of asymptomatic malignant breast tumors in women. But for a comprehensive assessment of the effectiveness of breast cancer therapy, CA 15-3 is well suited, especially in combination with other tumor markers (CEA).
The determination of CA 15-3 in practical medicine is carried out in the following cases:

• Evaluation of the effectiveness of therapy for breast carcinoma;
• Early detection of relapses and metastases after treatment of breast carcinoma;
• To distinguish between breast cancer and mastopathy.

An increase in the level of CA 15-3 is detected in the following oncological and non-oncological pathologies:

1. Oncological diseases:

• breast carcinoma;
• Bronchial carcinoma;
• Stomach cancer;
• Liver cancer;
• Pancreas cancer;
• Ovarian cancer (only in advanced stages);
• Endometrial cancer (only in the later stages);
• Uterine cancer (only in advanced stages).

• Benign diseases of the mammary glands (mastopathy, etc.);
• Cirrhosis of the liver;
• Acute or chronic hepatitis;
• Autoimmune diseases of the pancreas, thyroid gland and other endocrine organs;
• Third trimester of pregnancy.

Oncomarker CA 50

The CA 50 tumor marker is also called the pancreatic tumor marker, since it is the most informative and specific for malignant tumors of this organ. The maximum accuracy in the detection of pancreatic cancer is achieved with the simultaneous determination of the concentrations of tumor markers CA 50 and CA 19-9.

Determination of the concentration of CA 50 in practical medicine is carried out in the following cases:

• Suspicion of pancreatic cancer (including against the background of a normal level of CA 19-9);
• Suspicion of colon or rectal cancer;
• Monitoring the effectiveness of therapy and early detection of metastases or recurrence of pancreatic cancer.

An increase in the level of CA 50 is observed in the following oncological and non-oncological pathologies:

1. Oncological diseases:

• Pancreas cancer;
• Cancer of the rectum or colon;
• Stomach cancer;
• ovarian cancer;
• Lungs' cancer;
• Mammary cancer;
• Prostate cancer;
• Liver cancer.

• Acute pancreatitis;
• Hepatitis;
• Cirrhosis of the liver;
• Peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum.

Oncomarker SA 19-9

The CA 19-9 tumor marker is also called the pancreas and gallbladder tumor marker. However, in practice, this marker is one of the most sensitive and specific for cancer of not all organs of the digestive tract, but only the pancreas. That is why CA 19-9 is a marker for screening examinations for suspected pancreatic cancer. But, unfortunately, in about 15 - 20% of people, the level of CA 19-9 remains normal against the background of active growth of a malignant tumor of the pancreas, which is due to the absence of the Lewis antigen in them, as a result of which CA 19-9 is not produced in large quantities. Therefore, for a comprehensive and high-precision early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, the simultaneous determination of two oncomarkers, CA 19-9 and CA 50, is used. After all, if a person does not have the Lewis antigen and the level of CA 19-9 does not increase, then the concentration of CA 50 increases, which makes it possible to identify pancreas cancer.

In addition to pancreatic cancer, the concentration of the tumor marker CA 19-9 is increased in cancer of the stomach, rectum, biliary tract and liver.

That's why in practical medicine, the level of the oncomarker CA 19-9 is determined in the following cases:

• Distinguishing pancreatic cancer from other diseases of this organ (in combination with the CA 50 marker);
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment, monitoring the course, early detection of relapses and metastases of pancreatic carcinoma;
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment, monitoring the course, early detection of relapses and metastases of gastric cancer (in combination with the CEA marker and CA 72-4);
• Suspicion of cancer of the rectum or colon (in combination with a CEA marker);
• To detect mucinous forms of ovarian cancer in combination with the determination of markers CA 125, HE4.

An increase in the concentration of the oncomarker CA 19-9 is observed in the following oncological and non-oncological pathologies:

1. Oncological diseases (the level of CA 19-9 increases significantly):

• Pancreas cancer;
• Cancer of the gallbladder or biliary tract;
• Liver cancer;
• Stomach cancer;
• Cancer of the rectum or colon;
• Mammary cancer;
• Uterine cancer;
• Mucinous ovarian cancer.

• Hepatitis;
• Cirrhosis of the liver;
• Rheumatoid arthritis;
• Systemic lupus erythematosus;

Oncomarker CA 125

The CA 125 tumor marker is also called an ovarian marker, since the determination of its concentration is of the greatest importance for detecting tumors of this particular organ. In general, this tumor marker is produced by the epithelium of the ovaries, pancreas, gallbladder, stomach, bronchi and intestines, as a result of which an increase in its concentration may indicate the presence of a focus of tumor growth in any of these organs. Accordingly, such a wide range of tumors, in which the level of the CA 125 oncomarker can increase, determines its low specificity and low practical significance. That's why in practical medicine, the determination of the level of CA 125 is recommended in the following cases:

• As a screening test for breast cancer in postmenopausal women and in women of any age who have a blood relative with breast or ovarian cancer;
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of therapy, early detection of relapses and metastases in ovarian cancer;
• Detection of adenocarcinoma of the pancreas (in combination with the tumor marker CA 19-9);
• Monitoring the effectiveness of therapy and detection of relapses of endometriosis.

An increase in the level of CA 125 is observed in the following oncological and non-oncological pathologies:

1. Oncological diseases:

• Epithelial forms of ovarian cancer;
• Uterine cancer;
• endometrial cancer;
• Mammary cancer;
• Pancreas cancer;
• Stomach cancer;
• Liver cancer;
• Rectal cancer;
• Lungs' cancer.

• Benign tumors and inflammatory diseases of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes;
• endometriosis;
• third trimester of pregnancy;
• Liver disease;
• Diseases of the pancreas;
• Autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, etc.).

Prostate-specific antigen, total and free (PSA)

The common prostate-specific antigen is a substance produced by the cells of the prostate gland that circulates in the systemic circulation in two forms - free and protein-bound plasma. In clinical practice, the total PSA content (free + protein-bound form) and the level of free PSA are determined.

The total PSA content is a marker of any pathological processes in the prostate gland of men, such as inflammation, trauma, conditions after medical manipulations (for example, massage), malignant and benign tumors, etc. The level of free PSA decreases only in malignant tumors of the prostate, as a result of which this indicator, in combination with total PSA, is used for early detection and monitoring the effectiveness of prostate cancer therapy in men.

Thus, the determination of the total level of PSA and free PSA in practical medicine is used for the early detection of prostate cancer, as well as monitoring the effectiveness of therapy and the occurrence of relapses or metastases after the treatment of prostate cancer. Respectively, in practical medicine, the determination of the levels of free and total PSA is indicated in the following cases:

• Early diagnosis of prostate cancer;
• Risk assessment for the presence of prostate cancer metastases;
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of prostate cancer therapy;
• Detection of relapses or metastases of prostate cancer after treatment.

• Under 40 years old - less than 1.4 ng / ml;
• 40 - 49 years - less than 2 ng / ml;
• 50 - 59 years - less than 3.1 ng / ml;
• 60 - 69 years - less than 4.1 ng / ml;
• Over 70 years old - less than 4.4 ng / ml.

The level of free PSA has no independent diagnostic value, since its percentage relative to total PSA is important for the detection of prostate cancer. Therefore, free PSA is determined additionally only when the total level is more than 4 ng / ml in a man of any age and, accordingly, there is a high probability of prostate cancer. In this case, the amount of free PSA is determined and its ratio with total PSA is calculated as a percentage using the formula:

Free PSA / Total PSA * 100%

Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP)

Acid phosphatase is an enzyme that is produced in most organs, but the highest concentration of this substance is found in the prostate gland. Also, a high content of acid phosphatase is characteristic of the liver, spleen, erythrocytes, platelets and bone marrow. Part of the enzyme from the organs enters the bloodstream and circulates in the systemic circulation. Moreover, in the total amount of acid phosphatase in the blood, most of it is represented by a fraction from the prostate. That is why acid phosphatase is a tumor marker for the prostate.

In practical medicine, the concentration of acid phosphatase is used only to control the effectiveness of the therapy, since with a successful cure of the tumor, its level decreases to almost zero. For early diagnosis of prostate cancer, the determination of the level of acid phosphatase is not used, since for this purpose the oncomarker has too low sensitivity - no more than 40%. This means that with the help of acid phosphatase, only 40% of cases of prostate cancer can be detected.

Normal (not elevated) is the concentration of prostatic acid phosphatase less than 3.5 ng / ml.

An increase in the level of prostatic acid phosphatase is observed in the following oncological and non-oncological pathologies:

• prostate cancer;
• prostate infarction;
• Acute or chronic prostatitis;
• A period of 3 to 4 days after irritation of the prostate during surgery, rectal examination, biopsy, massage or ultrasound;
• chronic hepatitis;
• Cirrhosis of the liver.

Cancer-embryonic antigen (CEA, SEA)

This tumor marker is produced by carcinomas of various localizations - that is, tumors originating from the epithelial tissue of any organ. Accordingly, the level of CEA can be increased in the presence of carcinoma in almost any organ. However, CEA is most specific for carcinomas of the rectum and colon, stomach, lung, liver, pancreas, and breast. CEA levels may also be elevated in smokers and in people with chronic inflammatory diseases or benign tumors.

Due to the low specificity of CEA, this oncomarker is not used in clinical practice for early detection of cancer, but is used to evaluate the effectiveness of therapy and control relapses, since its level decreases sharply after tumor death compared to the values ​​that occurred before the start of treatment.

In addition, in some cases, the determination of CEA concentration is used to detect cancers, but only in combination with other tumor markers (with AFP for detecting liver cancer, with CA 125 and CA 72-4 for ovarian cancer, with CA 19-9 and CA 72- 4 - cancer of the stomach, with CA 15-3 - cancer of the breast, with CA 19-9 - cancer of the rectum or colon). In such situations, CEA is not the main, but an additional oncomarker, which makes it possible to increase the sensitivity and specificity of the main one.

Respectively, determination of CEA concentration in clinical practice is indicated in the following cases:

• To monitor the effectiveness of therapy and detect metastases of cancer of the intestine, breast, lung, liver, pancreas and stomach;
• To detect if there is suspicion of bowel cancer (with marker CA 19-9), breast cancer (with marker CA 15-3), liver (with marker AFP), stomach (with markers CA 19-9 and CA 72-4), pancreas (with markers CA 242, CA 50 and CA 19-9) and lungs (with markers NSE, AFP, SCC, Cyfra CA 21-1).

• Smokers aged 20 - 69 years - less than 5.5 ng / ml;
• Non-smokers aged 20 - 69 years - less than 3.8 ng / ml.

1. Oncological diseases:

• Cancer of the rectum and colon;
• Mammary cancer;
• Lungs' cancer;
• Cancer of the thyroid, pancreas, liver, ovaries and prostate (increased CEA value is diagnostic only if the levels of other markers of these tumors are also elevated).

• Hepatitis;
• Cirrhosis of the liver;
• pancreatitis;
• Crohn's disease;
• Ulcerative colitis ;
• Prostatitis;
• Hyperplasia of the prostate;
• lung diseases;
• Chronic renal failure.

Tissue polypeptide antigen (TPA)

This tumor marker is produced by carcinomas - tumors originating from epithelial cells of any organ. However, TPA is most specific for carcinomas of the breast, prostate, ovaries, stomach, and intestines. Respectively, in clinical practice, the determination of the level of TPA is indicated in the following cases:

• Identification and monitoring of the effectiveness of therapy for bladder carcinoma (in combination with TPA);
• Identification and monitoring of the effectiveness of breast cancer therapy (in combination with CEA, CA 15-3);
• Identification and monitoring of the effectiveness of lung cancer therapy (in combination with NSE, AFP, SCC, Cyfra CA 21-1 markers);
• Detection and monitoring of the effectiveness of cervical cancer therapy (in combination with SCC markers, Cyfra CA 21-1).

An increase in the level of TPA is observed in the following cancers:

• bladder carcinoma;
• Mammary cancer;
• Lungs' cancer.

Tumor-M2-pyruvate kinase (PK-M2)

This oncomarker is highly specific for malignant tumors, but does not have organ specificity. This means that the appearance of this marker in the blood unequivocally indicates the presence of a focus of tumor growth in the body, but, unfortunately, does not give an idea of ​​which organ is affected.

Determining the concentration of PC-M2 in clinical practice is indicated in the following cases:

• To clarify the presence of a tumor in combination with other organ-specific tumor markers (for example, if any other tumor marker is elevated, but it is not clear whether this is a consequence of the presence of a tumor or a non-cancer disease. In this case, determining PC-M2 will help to distinguish whether an increase in the concentration of another tumor marker is caused by a tumor or non-oncological disease, since if the level of PC-M2 is elevated, then this clearly indicates the presence of a tumor, which means that organs should be examined for which another tumor marker with a high concentration is specific);
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of therapy;
• Monitoring the appearance of metastases or tumor recurrence.

An elevated level of PC-M2 in the blood is detected in the following tumors:

• Cancer of the digestive tract (stomach, intestines, esophagus, pancreas, liver);
• Mammary cancer;
• kidney cancer;
• Lung cancer.

Chromogranin A

It is a sensitive and specific marker of neuroendocrine tumors. That's why in clinical practice, the determination of the level of chromogranin A is indicated in the following cases:

• Detection of neuroendocrine tumors (insulinomas, gastrinomas, VIPomas, glucagonomas, somatostatinomas, etc.) and monitoring the effectiveness of their therapy;
• To evaluate the effectiveness of hormone therapy for prostate cancer.

Increasing the concentration of the tumor marker observed only in neuroendocrine tumors.

Combinations of tumor markers for the diagnosis of cancer of various organs

Let us consider rational combinations of various oncomarkers, the concentrations of which are recommended to be determined for the most accurate and early detection of malignant tumors of various organs and systems. In this case, we present the main and additional tumor markers for cancer of each localization. To evaluate the results, it is necessary to know that the main oncomarker has the highest specificity and sensitivity to tumors of any organ, and the additional one increases the information content of the main one, but without it it has no independent significance.

Accordingly, an increased level of both the main and additional oncomarkers means a very high degree of probability of cancer of the examined organ. For example, in order to detect breast cancer, tumor markers CA 15-3 (main) and CEA with CA 72-4 (additional) were determined, and the level of all was elevated. This means that the chance of having breast cancer is over 90%. For further confirmation of the diagnosis, it is necessary to examine the breast with instrumental methods.

A high level of the main and normal additional markers means that there is a high probability of cancer, but not necessarily in the organ being examined, since the tumor can also grow in other tissues for which the tumor marker is specific. For example, if, when determining markers of breast cancer, the main CA 15-3 turned out to be elevated, and CEA and CA 72-4 are normal, then this may indicate a high probability of the presence of a tumor, but not in the mammary gland, but, for example, in the stomach, since CA 15-3 can also be elevated in gastric cancer. In such a situation, an additional examination of those organs in which a focus of tumor growth can be suspected is carried out.

If a normal level of the main oncomarker and an increased level of a secondary one are detected, then this indicates a high probability of the presence of a tumor not in the examined organ, but in other tissues, in relation to which additional markers are specific. For example, when determining breast cancer markers, the main CA 15-3 was within the normal range, while the minor CEA and CA 72-4 were elevated. This means that there is a high probability of the presence of a tumor not in the mammary gland, but in the ovaries or in the stomach, since CEA and CA 72-4 markers are specific for these organs.

Tumor markers of the mammary gland. The main markers are CA 15-3 and TPA, additional ones are CEA, PK-M2, HE4, CA 72-4 and beta-2 microglobulin.

ovarian tumor markers. The main marker is CA 125, CA 19-9, additional HE4, CA 72-4, hCG.

Intestinal tumor markers. The main marker is CA 242 and REA, additional CA 19-9, PK-M2 and CA 72-4.

Tumor markers of the uterus. For cancer of the body of the uterus, the main markers are CA 125 and CA 72-4 and additional - CEA, and for cervical cancer, the main markers are SCC, TPA and CA 125 and additional - CEA and CA 19-9.

Tumor markers of the stomach. The main ones are CA 19-9, CA 72-4, REA, additional CA 242, PK-M2.

Tumor markers of the pancreas. The main ones are CA 19-9 and CA 242, additional ones are CA 72-4, PK-M2 and REA.

Tumor markers of the liver. The main ones are AFP, additional ones (also suitable for detecting metastases) are CA 19-9, PK-M2 CEA.

Tumor markers of the lung. The main ones are NSE (for small cell cancer only), Cyfra 21-1 and CEA (for non-small cell cancers), additional ones are SCC, CA 72-4 and PC-M2.

Tumor markers of the gallbladder and biliary tract. The main one is SA 19-9, the additional one is AFP.

prostate tumor markers. The main ones are total PSA and the percentage of free PSA, the additional one is acid phosphatase.

Testicular tumor markers. The main ones are AFP, hCG, the additional one is NSE.

Bladder tumor markers. Chief - REA.

Thyroid tumor markers. The main ones are NSE, REA.

Tumor markers of the nasopharynx, ear or brain. The main ones are NSE and REA.

• SA 15-3, breast marker;
• CA 125, ovarian marker;
• CEA - marker of carcinomas of any localization;
• HE4, marker of ovaries and mammary gland;
• SCC, cervical cancer marker;
• CA 19-9 is a marker of the pancreas and gallbladder.

If the tumor marker is elevated

If the concentration of any tumor marker is increased, this does not mean that this person has a malignant tumor with 100% accuracy. After all, the specificity of any oncomarker does not reach 100%, as a result of which an increase in their level can be observed in other, non-oncological diseases.

Therefore, if an elevated level of any oncomarker is detected, it is necessary to take the analysis again after 3-4 weeks. And only if the concentration of the marker turns out to be increased for the second time, then it is necessary to start an additional examination in order to find out whether the high level of the oncomarker is associated with a malignant neoplasm or is caused by a non-oncological disease. To do this, it is necessary to examine those organs, the presence of a tumor in which can lead to an increase in the level of the tumor marker. If the tumor is not detected, then after 3-6 months you need to donate blood again for tumor markers.

Analysis price

The cost of determining the concentration of various tumor markers currently ranges from 200 to 2500 rubles. It is advisable to find out the prices for various tumor markers in specific laboratories, since each institution sets its own prices for each test, depending on the level of complexity of the analysis, the price of reagents, etc.

Deciphering what CA 125 means in a blood test is not easy. To do this, you need to know how much CA 125 is absolutely not dangerous, and how much indicates the presence of a dangerous disease. But before finding out the value of this indicator, you need to find out what it is - CA 125, or a glycoprotein.

Glycoprotein is a type of oncofetal protein. CA 125 is produced in a small amount by the epithelium of the pericardium, abdominal and pleural cavities. In healthy women, this glycoprotein is produced by the endometrium. Therefore, in women, this antigen indicator is constantly changing in different phases of the menstrual cycle and during menopause. The antigen is produced by organs in small amounts, and is synthesized very actively by some tumors, which makes it possible to use it as a tumor marker.

Based on the foregoing, a second definition of glycoprotein follows. CA 125 is a tumor marker that determines the amount of antigens in the blood that indicate the presence of malignant neoplasms. This analysis is more accurate than ultrasound and other imaging diagnostic methods. The CA 125 tumor marker makes it possible to detect even small formations that cannot be detected by ultrasound. But it should be remembered that in order to determine any disease, the decoding of the analysis must be carried out by a specialist.

What does the marker reveal?

Oncomarker CA 125 is able not only to detect oncology and other diseases, but also allows you to determine the success of treatment, the likelihood of relapse. An increased concentration of this tumor marker in women primarily indicates an ovarian tumor. Often, inflammation in the reproductive system, exciting appendages are also detected: salpingitis; endometritis; adnexitis. Sometimes a high concentration of a tumor marker is detected in benign gynecological tumors, for example, in cystic ovarian diseases and endometriosis.

• peritonitis;
• hepatitis;
• pericarditis;
• acute pancreatitis;
• kidney failure;
• pneumonia;
• exudative pleurisy.

An analysis for CA 125 must also be taken to identify other diseases, where it is no longer the main marker, but rather an additional one, is included in a comprehensive examination and helps to assess how effective the therapy is. These pathologies include:

• cirrhosis of the liver;
• lung cancer;
• breast cancer;
• cancer of the pancreas;
• cancerous tumor of the stomach.

CA 125 is observed at an increased concentration at the beginning of pregnancy, but this is the norm for this position of the woman, and no intervention is required.

Interpretation of antigen values

To identify any disease, it is necessary to decipher the results of the analysis, for which you need to know how much of the CA 125 oncomarker is the norm, and what is the basis for establishing a dangerous pathology. The norm of the antigen should not be more than 35 units / ml. In healthy women, the norm varies between 11-13 units / ml, in men the norm should not exceed 10 units / ml.

It is important to know that a high CA 125 concentration alone does not warrant a dire diagnosis, so it is important to consider other test results and symptoms. With an ovarian tumor, 90% of patients have an antigen level in the range of 116-1200 units / ml. Inflammatory processes and benign neoplasms are usually accompanied by an increase in the tumor marker by no more than 100 units/ml

If a high concentration of CA 125 is observed against the background of remission, then a more thorough examination of the patient is required to detect relapse. If the indicator is constantly elevated, then this indicates the progression of malignant formation and the ineffectiveness of treatment.

The amount of CA 125 increases with the development of oncology, so doctors can determine the stage of the disease by this indicator. But there are exceptions here too. For example, when cancer occurs in combination with the accumulation of free fluid in the abdominal cavity, irritation of the peritoneum occurs, and the mucous membrane begins to produce CA 125 itself, and this does not allow determining the stage of the disease without additional examination.

A decrease in the concentration of CA 125 may indicate the effectiveness of treatment. A significant decrease in the amount of antigen in the blood is the basis for a favorable prognosis. An indicator of CA 125 close to zero characterizes complete remission. But a sharp increase from 0 to 35 units / ml is considered an indicator of relapse, which requires a deep examination of the patient. It should be remembered that the decoding of the analyzes should be carried out only by a qualified doctor.

Submission of material for research

For the study of CA 125, blood is taken from a vein. You need to take it in the morning on an empty stomach from 7 to 11 hours. 2-3 days before blood sampling, you should not drink alcoholic beverages, eat fatty, fried, salty foods. The last meal should be 8 hours before blood sampling. You can only drink pure water. It is not recommended to take the material for analysis after physical exertion.

Donating blood after massage, physiotherapy, ultrasound, x-rays and other medical procedures is not welcome, as all these interventions can seriously affect the results of the analysis. Blood sampling should be done before taking any medications or 10-14 days after they are discontinued.

The CA 125 tumor marker is a specific indicator that can be used to identify diseases of a narrow focus, therefore, for maximum accuracy, you need to donate blood only with strict adherence to all doctor's recommendations.

It is important to monitor your health, undergo regular examinations in medical institutions, then there is a high probability of either completely preventing the occurrence of dangerous diseases or detecting them at an early stage. After all, a disease detected at the very beginning of its development can, in most cases, be cured.

The CA-125 antigen is a glycoprotein of cell membranes, which in a healthy body is secreted by epithelial cells of body cavities, as well as epithelial cells of the peritoneum, pleura, pericardium, endometrium, fallopian tubes and cervical mucosa.

It is very important, from a diagnostic point of view, that healthy ovaries do not produce CA-125, and the expression and secretion of this antigen in the blood is significantly increased when cancer cells appear in the testicles.

Normal value of CA-125 antigen

To study the level of concentration of this antigen, a patient's blood sample is taken, mainly from the cubital vein. Most healthy women have cancer antigen CA-125 does not exceed 35 U / ml. Sometimes, however, in order to eliminate as many false positives as possible, the lower limit of normal is 65 U / ml.

However, it should be remembered that, although the diagnostic sensitivity of this study is relatively high, it is not a diagnostic tool and cannot be considered as way to detect cancer ovaries.

Not all women with cancer have elevated levels of CA-125, and conversely, not all women with elevated levels develop ovarian cancer. It only performs an auxiliary function in diagnosis, in addition to the standard gynecological examination and ultrasound.

Interpretation of CA-125 Antigen Test Results

An increased value of this marker, but not more than 300 U / ml, can be detected in a normal physiological state, for example, during menstruation in women, in the first trimester of pregnancy, as well as in diseases such as inflammation of the liver, pancreas and appendages, liver cirrhosis and various autoimmune diseases.

In addition, it should be noted that the level antigen CA-125 increases in the case of tumors of other organs, for example, adenocarcinoma of the lung, breast cancer, endometrial cancer and pancreatic cancer.

In general, however, the detection of elevated CA-125 values ​​raises suspicions of the development of ovarian cancer in this patient, especially such forms as serous and endometrial ovarian cancer. This test is more sensitive the higher the degree of cancer. Thus, in the case of ovarian cancer, grade I according to the FIGO classification, elevated values ​​of the antigen are found only in 50% of patients, and in later stages of development - in 100% of women.

Determining the level of CA-125 very important for control after surgical treatment of ovarian cancer, as well as after additional radiochemotherapy. In such cases, a decrease in the level of this antigen in the blood serum indicates the effectiveness of the treatment used, and its increase may indicate the appearance of local recurrences or distant metastases to other organs. This is an indication that the abdominal cavities should be checked again and look for residual tumors.

The use of CA-125 antigen testing, along with gynecological examination and transvaginal ultrasound, as a screening test for ovarian cancer in women at risk is currently under discussion. However, there is no unequivocal evidence of the high effectiveness of such screening.