Prognostic Value of Early CA125 Serum Assay in Ovarian Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): J. Fisken, R.C.F. Leonard, M. Stewart, G.J. Beattie, C. Sturgeon, L. Aspinall, J.E. Roulston
Primary Institution: University Departments of Clinical Biochemistry and Clinical Oncology, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh
Hypothesis
Can early serum CA125 levels predict survival in patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer?
Conclusion
Early CA125 levels are significant predictors of both progression-free and overall survival in patients undergoing chemotherapy for advanced ovarian cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- CA125 was the most significant predictor of progression-free survival after the first cycle of chemotherapy.
- Patients with CA125 levels greater than 450 U/ml had a median survival of only 7 months.
- Patients with CA125 levels less than 55 U/ml had a median survival of 23 months.
Takeaway
Doctors can use a blood test called CA125 to help figure out how long someone with ovarian cancer might live after treatment.
Methodology
Blood samples were collected from patients and CA125 levels were measured before and after chemotherapy cycles to assess their prognostic value.
Potential Biases
Patient-selection bias may have affected the significance of some prognostic factors.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and not all patients had samples taken before each chemotherapy cycle.
Participant Demographics
Patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer, median age around 60 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0005
Statistical Significance
p<0.0005
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