What is the level of cancer antigen for ovarian cancer?

Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
Updated on May 25, 2025
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Carcinoembryonic antigen is primarily found in malignant tumors of the digestive tract, such as colorectal cancer and gastric cancer, where it tends to be significantly elevated. It is also elevated in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. In cases of ovarian cancer, carcinoembryonic antigen may be elevated, but the most primary, sensitive, and specific tumor marker is CA125, which usually shows a significant increase. However, CA125 is specifically elevated in the pathological type of epithelial ovarian cancer.

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Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
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How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?

Ovarian cancer is discovered through transvaginal ultrasound of the adnexa uteri revealing ovarian tumors, or through imaging studies such as abdominal CT scans or MRIs showing ovarian tumors, combined with tumor markers, particularly the ovarian epithelial cancer tumor marker CA125, which will be significantly elevated. Generally, with these findings, ovarian cancer can typically be clinically diagnosed. Confirmation, however, requires pathological diagnosis, which involves obtaining a biopsy of the tumor. This can be done through a puncture biopsy or through pathological examination after surgical excision to confirm ovarian cancer. Additionally, some patients with ovarian cancer present with substantial ascites at the time of discovery. If cancer cells are found in the abdominal fluid, combined with a significant increase in CA125 and imaging studies showing ovarian tumors, ovarian cancer can also be diagnosed.

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Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
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Does ovarian cancer cause abdominal pain every day?

Patients with ovarian cancer often experience abdominal pain as a common symptom. This is because ovarian cancer can widely implant itself within the pelvic and abdominal cavity, or directly invade the uterus, fallopian tubes, and other tissues and organs within the pelvis, resulting in symptoms of abdominal pain. However, not every patient with ovarian cancer will necessarily exhibit abdominal pain as a clinical symptom, nor is it the case that abdominal pain will occur every day. For instance, some patients with early-stage ovarian cancer may have more concealed clinical presentations and may not experience any specific discomfort. They might discover the disease through physical examinations, gynecological exams, or through ultrasound scans of the uterine adnexa conducted during physical check-ups.

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Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
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How long can one live with ovarian cancer?

The lifespan of ovarian cancer patients depends on several factors including the specific stage of the cancer, the patient's sensitivity and response to treatment, and the overall health of the patient, leading to significant individual variability. The cancer is typically classified into stages from one to four, with stage one being the earliest and stage four being the most advanced. Generally, patients diagnosed at an earlier stage tend to have a better prognosis and a greater chance of survival compared to those with advanced ovarian cancer. Additionally, patients in advanced stages who respond well to treatments like chemotherapy typically have a better prognosis and longer survival times compared to those who are less responsive to such treatments. Hence, it is impossible to generalize as the individual differences are substantial.

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Written by Wu Xia
Oncology
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What to eat after ovarian cancer surgery

After ovarian cancer surgery, a person’s immune system is relatively weak and they are quite frail. At this time, recuperation is necessary, and careful nursing is essential. The diet should primarily consist of easily digestible, high-energy foods. Patients can eat more fish after ovarian cancer surgery, as fish is high in protein and also easy to digest and absorb. Additionally, it is suitable to eat some fruits like bananas. Moreover, it is important to drink plenty of water. After surgery, ensure at least 2000 milliliters of water intake per day to help expel toxins and prevent constipation.

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Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
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Will ovarian cancer recur after complete resection?

After complete removal of ovarian cancer, there is still a possibility of recurrence, especially in patients with high-risk factors. The recurrence rate can be quite high, for example, if there was rupture of the capsule, low differentiation of the pathology, presence of tumor tissue on the surface of the ovary, severe adhesion of the tumor to the surrounding areas, cancer cells found in the abdominal lavage fluid, or presence of vascular tumor thrombus and nerve invasion. Even after total removal, recurrence can still occur.