Multiple Myeloma Diagnosis- Oncologist vs. Patients

Hi Marjorie-

I am sorry to read of your ovarian cancer diagnosis. I am a survivor and coach for a blood cancer called multiple myeloma. I am not qualified to answer questions about CA 125 diagnostic testing.

I am sorry that I can be more help.

David Emerson

Hi Barbara-

I’m sorry to read of your cervical cancer. Regarding your question “. I took another CA125 test on 9/14 and was just told the count is now at 70. Should I be worried?” as you probably know, you have several things to consider. I will highlight several and you should also get feedback from your Onc.

Based on the Medscape article linked below, 35, depending on the unit of measurement, may be normal. But a CA125 test that is increasing is not good. Keep in mind however that several things can trigger the CA125 antigen. Please read “Conditions other than cancer that can cause high CA-125 values include:” below. Yes, the treatments you received can cause an increase in the CA125 antigen.

As you probably already have figured, you have pros and cons to consider. I would not advocate getting too worried but I would take action.

Whether your CA125 is increasing or decreasing, I think that learning about and considering those non-conventional therapies that have been shown to decrease or fight cervical cancer makes sense for you. There antioxidant and polyphenol supplements that have been shown to fight cervical cancer.

If you are interested I can provide studies to support the efficacy of these supplements.

Cancer antigen 125 normal values 1
Normal:
Less than 35 units per milliliter (U/mL)

Less than 35 kiloUnits per liter (kU/L) (SI units)

High values

Conditions other than cancer that can cause high CA-125 values include:
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
Endometriosis.
Uterine fibroids.
Liver disease (such as hepatitis or cirrhosis).
Pancreatitis.
The first trimester of pregnancy.
Certain times during the menstrual cycle.
Lupus.

Let me know how you want to proceed.

David Emerson