Ovarian Risk Assessment (ROMA) blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

CA-125 (cancer antigen 125) and HE4 (human epididymis protein 4) are proteins that can be found in the blood. Both are described as tumour-associated markers, which means they can be raised in some ovarian conditions but are also raised for many other reasons. CA-125 in particular can rise with periods, pregnancy, endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic infection and liver disease, while HE4 can be affected by kidney function and smoking.

The ROMA (Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm) combines the two results with your menopausal status to produce a score. Your report includes both the pre-menopausal and post-menopausal score so that your practitioner can use the one that applies to you. Clinically, ROMA is mainly used once a pelvic mass has been found.

The price includes your 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 been told you have an ovarian cyst or pelvic mass and your clinician wants additional information.
• You have previously had a raised CA-125 and are having it followed up.
• You have a family history of ovarian cancer and want to discuss your markers with a practitioner, alongside genetic and specialist advice.
• You are being monitored after treatment and your specialist has asked for these markers.

Understanding your result

Your report shows each marker against the laboratory reference range and gives the ROMA score with its risk category. A higher score suggests a greater likelihood that a known pelvic mass needs specialist assessment, while a lower score is more reassuring. Neither result can confirm or rule out cancer, and a raised marker is common in benign conditions, especially before the menopause.

This test is not a screening test for ovarian cancer in women without symptoms. If you have persistent bloating, pelvic or tummy pain, feeling full quickly or needing to pass urine more often, please see your GP, whatever this result shows. Results outside the range call for discussion with your practitioner, and they do not amount to a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

You do not need to fast for this test. If you have periods, CA-125 can be higher during menstruation, so it is usually better to book away from your period. Tell us if you are pregnant, have endometriosis or kidney problems, or take high-dose biotin supplements, which can interfere with some laboratory immunoassays. We confirm any preparation when you book.

If you would like to look at hormones at the same time, the menopause blood test covers FSH and related markers, and the Standard Screen gives a wider health picture. Prefer to explore? We list every blood test and price in Chiswick on one page.

Questions

How much is an Ovarian Risk Assessment (ROMA) in Chiswick?

The Ovarian Risk Assessment (ROMA) costs £129 at Omnia Lifestyle in Chiswick. This includes your blood sample, measurement of CA-125 and HE4 at the Randox accredited laboratory, both ROMA scores, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Can this test detect ovarian cancer?

No. CA-125 and HE4 are tumour-associated markers that can be raised for many reasons. They are read alongside a clinical assessment and imaging, and cannot diagnose or exclude cancer on their own.

Why are there two ROMA scores?

The algorithm uses different calculations before and after the menopause. Your report shows both, and your practitioner uses the one that matches your menopausal status.

What could cause a raised CA-125?

Common causes include periods, pregnancy, endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammation and liver disease.