View source for CA 125

== CA 125 ==

'''CA 125''' (pronounced: see-ay one two five), also known as '''Cancer Antigen 125''', is a [[protein]] that is often found in higher levels in the blood of women with [[ovarian cancer]]. It is used as a [[tumor marker]] in the detection and management of this type of cancer.

=== Etymology ===

The term "CA 125" stands for "Cancer Antigen 125". It was named this way because it was the 125th [[cancer antigen]] to be discovered.

=== Related Terms ===

* [[Tumor marker]]: A substance found in the body when cancer is present. CA 125 is one such marker, often found in higher levels in women with ovarian cancer.
* [[Ovarian cancer]]: A type of cancer that begins in the ovaries. CA 125 levels are often used to monitor the progress of this disease.
* [[Protein]]: A molecule made up of amino acids. CA 125 is a type of protein.
* [[Antigen]]: A substance that the body recognizes as foreign and that can provoke an immune response. CA 125 is considered an antigen.

=== See Also ===

* [[CA 19-9]]: Another type of cancer antigen, often associated with pancreatic cancer.
* [[CA 15-3]]: A cancer antigen that is often associated with breast cancer.

[[Category:Medical Dictionary]]
[[Category:Cancer]]
[[Category:Oncology]]
[[Category:Proteins]]
[[Category:Tumor Markers]]

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