CA 125 blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

CA 125 is a protein found on the surface of cells lining the ovaries, womb, fallopian tubes and the membranes of the chest and abdomen. Small amounts are normally present in the blood. Levels can rise in ovarian cancer, which is why it is called a tumour-associated marker, but they also rise with many common benign conditions.

These include periods, pregnancy, endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, liver disease and inflammation of the abdominal lining. Equally, some early ovarian cancers do not raise CA 125. For this reason it is not an effective population screening test. In the NHS, CA 125 is used for people with persistent symptoms such as bloating, early fullness, pelvic or tummy pain and needing to pass urine more often, with an ultrasound, and to monitor known ovarian conditions. The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have persistent bloating, feeling full quickly, pelvic pain or urinary changes and have discussed them with a clinician.
• You have been treated for an ovarian condition and your specialist follows CA 125 over time.
• You have endometriosis and your clinician has asked for a CA 125 level.
• You have a strong family history of ovarian or breast cancer and want to discuss what testing is appropriate.
• Your GP has previously checked CA 125 and suggested a repeat.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your CA 125 with the laboratory reference range. A level inside the range is reassuring but does not exclude ovarian cancer, so symptoms that persist still need assessment by your GP. A raised level is often caused by benign conditions, particularly before the menopause, and usually leads to further investigation such as a pelvic ultrasound arranged through your GP.

CA 125 is always read alongside your symptoms, age, menopausal status and a clinical assessment. An abnormal result is best seen as a reason to discuss next steps, not a diagnosis in itself. If you have a family history and are considering genetic testing, this is best discussed with a genetic counsellor or specialist.

Preparing for your test

You can eat and drink as usual beforehand. Where possible, avoid having the test during your period, as menstruation can raise CA 125, and tell us if you are or might be pregnant. Please stop biotin or hair, skin and nail supplements for 48 hours beforehand, as they can affect some laboratory methods.

CA 125 is included in Advanced GP2 and Advanced GP3, which look at many areas of health together. Look through every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a CA 125 blood test in Chiswick?

A CA 125 blood test costs £59 at Omnia. This covers the sample at our W4 clinic, analysis at an accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report if you would like one.

Can CA 125 detect ovarian cancer?

Not on its own. It can be raised by many non-cancerous conditions and may be normal in early cancer. It is used with symptoms, an ultrasound and a clinical assessment.

Does my period affect the result?

Yes. CA 125 can rise during menstruation, so it is best to book the test at a different point in your cycle where possible.

What should I do if I have symptoms?

Bloating, pelvic pain or feeling full quickly that happen most days for three weeks or more should be discussed with your GP, whatever a blood test shows.