Question 1

What is the Meaning of CA-125?

Accepted Answer

CA-125, or Cancer Antigen 125, is a glycoprotein detected in the blood that serves as a biomarker for certain conditions, most notably ovarian cancer. This protein, a derivative of the MUC16 gene, is primarily associated with epithelial cells, and its presence can indicate cellular changes within the body. Its utility provides insight into physiological states.

Question 2

What is the Context of CA-125?

Accepted Answer

This protein is found on the surface of various cells, including those lining the peritoneum, pleura, pericardium, and the epithelial cells of the fallopian tubes, endometrium, and cervix. While often associated with malignant ovarian cells, it is also expressed by normal tissues. Its biological role involves forming a protective barrier on cell surfaces and potentially modulating immune responses within physiological compartments.

Question 3

What is the Significance of CA-125?

Accepted Answer

CA-125 holds clinical significance primarily in ovarian cancer management, where its levels can correlate with disease activity. For diagnosed individuals, monitoring CA-125 helps assess treatment response and detect disease recurrence. Elevated levels can also stem from benign gynecological conditions or other non-cancerous inflammatory processes, requiring careful interpretation.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of CA-125?

Accepted Answer

CA-125 functions as a mucin (MUC16), a large glycosylated protein shed from cell surfaces into the bloodstream. While its precise physiological mechanism is not fully elucidated, its release into circulation is often triggered by irritation, inflammation, or proliferation of cells expressing it. In malignancy, rapid cell turnover and abnormal shedding contribute to elevated serum concentrations.

Question 5

What is the Application of CA-125?

Accepted Answer

Clinically, CA-125 is most commonly applied as a monitoring tool for patients undergoing treatment for epithelial ovarian cancer. It tracks disease progression or regression during chemotherapy and identifies potential recurrence following initial therapy. Its use as a primary screening test for ovarian cancer is not recommended due to limited specificity and sensitivity.

Question 6

What is the Metric of CA-125?

Accepted Answer

The concentration of CA-125 in serum is quantified using immunoassay techniques, typically an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or similar automated platforms. A blood sample is drawn; the laboratory measures the antigen amount, with results usually reported in units per milliliter (U/mL). Reference ranges vary, but a common threshold for concern is above 35 U/mL.

Question 7

What is the Risk of CA-125?

Accepted Answer

Relying solely on CA-125 levels for diagnosis or management carries inherent risks due to its lack of absolute specificity. Elevations can arise from numerous benign conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, or even normal physiological states like menstruation or pregnancy, leading to false positives and distress. Conversely, normal CA-125 levels do not exclude ovarian cancer, particularly in early stages, creating a risk of false negatives. Clinical decisions must combine CA-125 results with comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and imaging.

CA-125

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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