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CA125 Tumor marker is growing up during targeted ovarian cancer treatment with Bevacizumab.

Selva
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Good evening, I'm a 44year-old woman who has been diagnosed stage III Ovarian cancer in October 2023. I had a major surgery, followed by 6 cycles of Paclitaxel and carboplatin in addition with Bevacizumab at the 3rd cycle. I complete the chemotherapy in May 2024. I've just done the 12th cycle of bevacizumab however, the tumor marker CA125 started to grow up slowly since July but it was still in the range (35) until September (When it started to be above the range ca125= 55). Last week, was 74. The type of my ovarian cancer is mixed ovarian epithelial carcinomas endometrioid (60%) with clear cell (40%). The nadir of my ca125 in May, after the chemotherapy was 13. The initial level of ca125 (when the cancer has been discovered) was 3500. The ca125 constant growth it could be related to a recurrence? The last CT scan in September was ok, it did not show anything.

So far, I found confusing data about ca125 and recurrence. I am really, really worried about the idea that it could be a sign of recurrence. 

It is extremely difficult to manage the anxiety due to CT scan results, as well as ca125 results. 

I want to thank you in advance for your answer. 

S.

  • Dear Selva,

    Thank you for getting in touch with us, and welcome to our online community. My name is Annerose I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses here at the Macmillan Cancer Support line.

    I understand you are concerned about a rise in your recent CA125 levels whilst on ongoing (adjuvant) treatment of Bevacizumab for stage 3 ovarian cancer.

    It is understandable to worry and to try to find the answer on the internet, however, this is not always the most reliable source of information.

    It is important that you have a discussion with your team following the scan and ca125 blood test. They will be able to explain them to you and what they mean for your individual situation Selva.

    Have a look at our tips for talking with the healthcare team and use this to best prepare you for this consultation. 

    It is natural that you may be worried about the results, and it is important that you are able to express your concerns and get support. I am glad you have accessed our support available through our online community . You can also find support via our online search tool.

    It’s always a worrying time when you’re having cancer treatment waiting for, and getting results is not easy. The uncertainty about what the future may hold can be very difficult to cope with. Feeling upset and worried is completely understandable right now. You may feel like you have no control over what is going to happen to you. The waiting period might feel very long, and the future may feel very uncertain. 

    Living with uncertainty can be difficult and it may be helpful to have an outlet for your concerns. As mentioned below please do contact us on the Macmillan Support Line if you would like to talk things through. You can also take a look at these resources from Every Mind Matters or these NHS mental wellbeing audio guides. The audio guides are short recordings to help with worries and promote relaxation.

    The benefit of even taking a few minutes of time for yourself can be very helpful for some.  Penny Brohn Living Well with Cancer has extensive resources including relaxation videos, gentle exercise, management of stress and nutrition. They also offer counselling for friends and family too. 

    Also, some people like to talk to others going through a similar situation. You may find it helpful to talk with your partner, family, or a close friend. Your clinical specialist nurse can also provide support at this time. 

    I hope this has been helpful, but please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you need any further information or support.

    Best wishes and take care, 

    Annerose (Cancer Information Nurse Specialist) 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref/ BG/AM

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