Ovarian Cancer Blood Test
£149
20% off with code BFBL20
Biomarkers Included with the Ovarian Cancer Blood Test blood test
Scroll down for more information about each biomarker
CA125
Why choose us for your Ovarian Cancer Blood Test
About the Ovarian Cancer Blood Test blood test
Ovarian cancer is one of the largest gynaecological killers of women in the UK. It affects over 7,000 women each, and in most cases, it is diagnosed at a later stage when survival is at its lowest. However, when detected in the early stages (stage 1), ovarian cancer has a 90% chance of surviving five years or more. Unfortunately, only 33% of women are diagnosed at this stage.
One of the ways to facilitate early detection is through regular ovarian cancer screenings, which should start 30 to 35 years or 10 years earlier than the age when the youngest family member was diagnosed. For symptomatic people, one of the screening methods for ovarian cancer is the CA125 blood test.
You can read more about ovarian cancer and our test in our knowledge hub article by clicking here.
Why Do You Need an Ovarian Cancer Blood Test?
The ovarian cancer blood test of CA-125 test is used to measure the amount of CA-125 in the blood. Although CA-125 may be elevated in several health conditions and multiple types of cancer, the test is often reserved for patients with suspected or confirmed ovarian cancer. When used as part of a screening, triggering a positive result doesn’t always suggest you may have ovarian cancer. Additional testing may be required to determine if you have cancer and identify whether the type of cancer you have is ovarian.
Why carry out a ovarian cancer blood test?
Diagnosing a pelvic mass
If your healthcare provider determines that you have a pelvic mass seen on an imaging test that could be related to ovarian cancer, they may order a blood test to confirm or rule out the mass as ovarian cancer. The majority of patients with the most common type of ovarian cancer also have elevated CA-125 levels, which makes this test necessary.
Screening high-risk patients
The ovarian cancer blood test can also be used in screening patients at a high risk of developing this type of cancer due to hereditary cancer syndromes, such as those with inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. CA-125 testing is not commonly used to screen for ovarian cancer in patients who are not at a high risk of developing this disease.
Evaluating treatment response
Besides screening, the ovarian cancer blood test also helps your healthcare provider monitor how well a patient’s ovarian cancer is responding to treatment.
Estimating prognosis
Some healthcare providers may recommend measuring the CA-125 levels to help estimate a patient’s prognosis or chance of recovery from ovarian cancer.
Monitoring for cancer recurrence
Monitoring the level of CA-125 can help to check for signs of the return of cancer after the patient has completed treatment for ovarian cancer.
What to Expect During the Ovarian Cancer Blood Test
The ovarian cancer blood test, or CA-125, is performed on a blood sample. The test begins with obtaining a blood sample using a small needle to draw blood from the vein.
Before the test
There are no preparation requirements for this test. However, if you’re on any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, you should inform us when setting up the appointment to ensure the test is as accurate as possible.
During the test
The test starts by withdrawing blood from a vein, usually in your arm. During the process, you may feel a slight pain or stinging when the needle is inserted or removed, but this is usually mild and short-lived. This process takes no more than five minutes.
After the test
After the blood draw, you can return to normal activities without risks or side effects. However, you should contact your healthcare provider if you notice any symptoms, such as light-headedness, continued bleeding, or an infection.
Biomarker information for Ovarian Cancer Blood Test blood test
CA125 is an ovarian cancer risk marker that checks the level of a protein CA125 in your blood. It’s normal to have this protein in your blood but elevated levels can be an indication of ovarian cancer.
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What does the Ovarian Cancer Blood Test blood test involve?
This blood test is just like a standard blood test.
You will be asked to uncover you left or right arm and suitable vein is found. A tourniquet will be placed and tightened around your upper arm allowing the veins to swell and a needle will be placed into your vein. A small quantity of blood is then drawn into tubes. Once the procedure is complete a small plaster will be placed onto the site which can be removed after a few hours.
How do I prepare
- The blood test requires access to the area of interest, therefore, it is recommended to wear loose clothing to facilitate this process.
- If you are unsure about the preparation, please contact us for further information.
How to find us
We pride ourselves on providing the best quality service we can which is why we are trusted by GP's, doctors, physiotherapists, midwives and many other healthcare professionals.
Our mission of better quality healthcare for everyone is at the heart of everything we do and drives us to do the best we can for each and every patient that we see. Our team of experts have years of experience and are fully registered and regulated meaning you are in safe hands with us.
Ovarian Cancer Blood Test FAQ's
How much is an ovarian cancer blood test in London?
The cost of the ovarian cancer blood test in London varies depending on the health facility you visit. Hospitals might charge a higher fee, which may include consultation fees. The biomarkers checked during the test will also vary.
At The Scan Clinic, the cost of the ovarian cancer blood test starts at £219 and includes various biomarkers such as HE4, CA125, and the Risk of Ovarian Malignancy (ROMA) score. You can call our office beforehand to get accurate pricing on the test and book an appointment on when you would like to come for the test.
How often should I take the ovarian blood cancer test?
The ovarian blood cancer test is a screening test and should be taken every time you go for cancer screening. Your doctor may also request periodic tests if you’re receiving treatment for ovarian cancer to monitor the effect of the treatment and determine if adjustments are necessary.
Is there any preparation required before the test?
No preparation is required before coming in for the test. However, if you’re on any prescription or over-the-counter medication, you should inform us to ensure that it doesn’t interfere with the test results.
How long does it take to get the results after the test?
The test is completed quickly, and the clinician may give you a verbal result before leaving the clinic. However, it takes 1-2 days to get the full results.
Important Notes
- We may require details of your GP / Health Care Professional before or at the time of the test.
- Our London East clinic is located on the first floor, up one flight of stairs. Please note that we don’t have a lift available at this location.
- Blood results require interpretation. All results should be interpreted by your regular health care professional / GP.
- All of our first-line tests are optional and provided on a self-referral basis. You must be aged 16 years or over to use this service. If you have an existing medical condition, are undergoing treatment, or have any concerns about whether this test is appropriate for you, we recommend that you consult your GP or healthcare professional before booking.
- We kindly ask that you inform us of any specific requirements, reasonable adjustments, cultural considerations, or practitioner preferences before your appointment. Whilst we will make every reasonable effort to accommodate requests, this may not always be possible at short notice or subject to staff availability.