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Prognostic value of Ca 125 levels during primary therapy
Susanne Markmann1, Bernd Gerber, Volker Briese
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Klinikum Südstadt, University of Rostock, Südring 81, 18059 Rostock, Germany. susanne.markmann@med.uni-rostock.de
Anticancer Research
|July 26, 2007
Summary
The tumor marker carbohydrate antigen 125 (Ca 125) is a prognostic factor in ovarian cancer. Elevated Ca 125 levels, particularly above 100 U/l post-treatment, indicate a poor prognosis and reduced survival rates.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Ovarian cancer prognosis is influenced by stage, histology, age, ascites, performance status, and debulking surgery.
- Complete cytoreductive surgery is a critical prognostic factor.
- The role of Ca 125 as a prognostic factor in ovarian cancer requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the suitability of Ca 125 as a prognostic factor in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer.
- To assess the correlation between Ca 125 levels and overall survival in ovarian cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 197 epithelial ovarian cancer patients diagnosed and treated between 1990-2000.
- Ca 125 levels determined using ELISA at baseline, post-surgery, and post-treatment.
- Statistical analysis included Kaplan-Meier curves, Log-rank test, Cox regression, and Pearson correlation.
Main Results:
- Ca 125 levels showed a moderate correlation with FIGO stage.
- Patients with Ca 125 levels > 100 U/l had significantly lower three-year survival rates (p < 0.05).
- Normal Ca 125 levels increased after surgery (26.7%) and primary treatment (69.7%).
Conclusions:
- Ca 125 levels correlate with overall survival in ovarian cancer.
- A Ca 125 level > 100 U/l after treatment is associated with significantly shorter survival.
- The tumor marker Ca 125 serves as a prognostic indicator in ovarian cancer, with levels around 100 U/l suggesting a poor prognosis.