A CA-125 test is a blood test that measures the amount of the protein CA-125, also called cancer antigen 125, in your body.
CA-125 is a type of biomarker or a substance in your blood that may be a sign of a condition or disease. A high level of CA-125 can be a sign of ovarian cancer. Your ovaries are a pair of reproductive glands that store and release eggs and produce hormones.
A CA-125 test can have both false positive and false negative findings. CA-125 levels can be normal even if you have cancer (false negative), or they can be elevated when you don’t have cancer (false positive). For this reason, a CA-125 test isn’t an effective screening for ovarian cancer.
Instead, healthcare providers will order a CA-125 blood test as part of an overall approach to monitoring certain types of cancer, especially during and after cancer treatment.
Providers also use this test for the early detection of ovarian cancer in people who are at high risk. This could include factors such as if an immediate family member had ovarian cancer or if you have been found to have a genetic mutation or error that increases your risk of developing ovarian cancer. A CA-125 test isn’t useful for people with no symptoms or risk factors.
A CBC test measures the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets in your blood. It’s commonly done to assess overall health and detect conditions like infections, anemia, and immune system disorders.
For a fasting blood sugar test, you should avoid eating or drinking anything except water for 8-12 hours before the test. This helps provide accurate measurements of your blood glucose levels.
A lipid profile test includes measurements of total cholesterol, HDL (good cholesterol), LDL (bad cholesterol), and triglycerides. It’s used to assess your risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions.
At Karauli Diagnostics, most routine blood test results are available within 24 hours. Specialized tests may take longer depending on the complexity and type of analysis required.
A thyroid function test measures levels of T3, T4, and TSH hormones in your blood. It’s done to diagnose thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which can affect your metabolism and overall health.
Yes, fasting for 8-12 hours is typically required before a cholesterol test. This ensures accurate measurements of your LDL, HDL, and triglycerides without interference from recent food intake.
You should consult with your doctor before your test. Some medications can affect blood test results, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding medication intake.
The blood tests you need depend on your symptoms, medical history, and overall health. Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations, or you can consult with Karauli Diagnostics for preventive health check-ups.