Elevated tumor markers and ovarian cancer

Markers such as CA-125 are substances measured in blood that may change with ovarian cancer. They can also be affected by menstruation, endometriosis, fibroids, infection, inflammation, pregnancy, or other conditions. Some ovarian cancers do not raise a marker, and a raised result does not show where a problem is or how advanced it is. Clinicians consider the result alongside symptoms, examination, menopausal status, prior results, and imaging. A [Pelvic Ultrasound](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/pelvic-ultrasound/) may show an ovarian or pelvic finding that needs closer assessment.

Ask which marker was tested, why it was ordered, and whether repeating it would add useful information. Assessment may include imaging, specialist examination, and sometimes surgery or tissue analysis. If cancer is diagnosed, [Genomic Tumour Profiling](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/genomic-tumour-profiling/) can help identify features relevant to treatment discussions. Depending on findings, care may involve [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/), [Oophorectomy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/oophorectomy/), or [Ovarian Cancer Debulking Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/ovarian-debulking-surgery/).

Contact a clinician promptly for persistent bloating, increasing abdominal size, pelvic pain, early fullness, unexplained weight change, or changes in bowel or bladder habits. Seek urgent care for severe or sudden pelvic pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, heavy bleeding, or a swollen abdomen with inability to pass stool or gas.

Ask what the marker can indicate in your situation, which benign causes are possible, what imaging has shown, and what would lead to a biopsy or operation. If cancer is confirmed, ask whether genetic testing, genomic profiling, symptom support, or [Palliative Care](/treatments/supportive-and-palliative-care/palliative-care/) should be discussed.