Cancer Marker Profile - Ovarian

The HE4 With ROMA Index test measures key biomarkers to assess the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. It includes Human Epididymis Protein 4 (HE4), CA 125, and the Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA) index evaluation. In cases of ovarian cancer, the levels of HE4 and CA 125 are often elevated. The ROMA index combines HE4 levels with CA 125 along with other factors like the woman’s age and menopausal status for the calculation of a numerical score. This combination of biomarkers and clinical history enhances the accuracy of the HE4 With ROMA Index test in predicting the presence of epithelial ovarian cancer, particularly in its early stages. This test is instrumental in women with pelvic masses who have not yet undergone surgery.

What sets the HE4 With ROMA Index test apart is its ability to provide a nuanced assessment of epithelial ovarian cancer risk. While CA 125 alone can sometimes yield false positive results due to its elevation in other conditions like endometriosis, HE4 offers added specificity and precision. Moreover, the ROMA index considers factors like age and menopausal status, further refining the risk assessment. This comprehensive approach not only helps in the early detection of epithelial ovarian cancer but also helps differentiate between malignant (cancerous) and benign (non-cancerous) ovarian masses, guiding doctors in making informed decisions regarding further diagnostic workup and determining whether a woman with a pelvic mass is at high or low risk for ovarian cancer before surgery, which can guide treatment decisions and help in planning surgery. 

The Lactate Dehydrogenase, Serum test measures the level of the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the blood. LDH is involved in energy production and is present in many types of cells, including those in the heart, liver, muscles, kidneys, brain, and blood cells. When these cells are damaged or destroyed, they release LDH into the bloodstream. Therefore, a minor amount of LDH is continuously released into the bloodstream as part of regular cell turnover and metabolic processes. However, elevated LDH is concerning because it usually signals underlying tissue damage, inflammation, or a wide range of diseases such as liver disease, heart disease, hemolytic anemia, and certain cancers. Its elevation necessitates further diagnostic evaluation to determine the specific cause and appropriate treatment.

The CA 72.4 test measures the amount of cancer antigen 72.4 (CA 72.4) in the blood. CA 72.4 (or CA 72-4) is a tumor-associated glycoprotein that may be elevated in various cancers, particularly gastrointestinal cancers.

High levels of CA 72.4 may suggest active cancer or recurrence, while low levels may suggest effective treatment. However, the CA 72.4 is not a cancer-specific test and must be interpreted along with other clinical findings and diagnostic investigations.

The Carcino Embryonic Antigen test measures the level of a specific tumor marker called CEA In the blood, often associated with colon and rectal cancer. This biomarker is produced by certain tissues in the body, specifically gastrointestinal tissues, during fetal development. CEA levels drop to low or nonexistent levels after birth. Elevated levels of CEA in the blood may indicate the presence of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. However, it's important to note that high CEA levels can also be linked to non-cancerous conditions.

For a comprehensive evaluation, it is advised to consider other diagnostic tests in conjunction with Carcino Embryonic Antigen test and consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.