Elevated cancer antigen 125 [CA 125]
ICD-10 R97.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of elevated cancer antigen 125 [ca 125].
Elevated cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) is a biomarker primarily associated with ovarian cancer, although it can also be elevated in other malignancies and benign conditions. CA 125 is a glycoprotein that is often used in clinical practice to monitor treatment response and disease progression in patients with known ovarian cancer. Elevated levels of CA 125 can indicate the presence of malignancy, but they are not specific to cancer and can be influenced by various factors including menstruation, pregnancy, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Clinicians often order CA 125 tests in conjunction with imaging studies and other diagnostic procedures to assess the likelihood of malignancy in patients presenting with abdominal or pelvic symptoms. It is important to interpret CA 125 levels in the context of the patient's clinical picture, as false positives and negatives can occur. Regular monitoring of CA 125 levels can provide valuable information regarding disease status in patients with a history of ovarian cancer.
Documentation should include the reason for testing, clinical symptoms, and any relevant history of malignancy.
Patients presenting with abdominal pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits, particularly in those with a family history of ovarian cancer.
Consideration of other potential causes for elevated CA 125 levels, such as endometriosis or liver disease, is crucial.
Acute care documentation should detail the patient's presenting symptoms, the decision to order the CA 125 test, and any immediate management steps taken.
Patients presenting with acute abdominal pain or suspected ovarian torsion.
Rapid assessment and documentation are essential, as elevated CA 125 may influence urgent surgical decisions.
Used when testing for CA 125 levels in patients with suspected ovarian cancer.
Document the clinical indication for the test and any relevant patient history.
In oncology, ensure that the test results are correlated with treatment plans.
An elevated CA 125 level can indicate the presence of ovarian cancer, but it can also be elevated in benign conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease. It is important to interpret the results in conjunction with clinical findings.
