[Ovarian carcinoma antigen (CA 125) and ovarian cancer (clinical follow-up and prognostic studies)].

Serum concentrations of ovarian carcinoma antigen (CA 125) were determined by Abbot CA 125-EIA Monoclonal kit from 66 patients with malignant ovarian tumor. The preoperative serum levels of CA 125 were elevated (> 35.0 IU/ml) in 93% (27/29). After the laparotomy and before the irradiation or chemotherapy in 36% (24/36) of patients had elevated levels. No significant correlation was seen between elevated levels and histology, tumor grade and clinical stage. However, the rate of positive cases were significantly higher in advanced stages than in the 1st stage (p < 0.05). No significant correlation was found between the preoperative levels of CA 125 and the clinical course. The postoperative elevated levels indicated bad prognosis. Good conformity was found between CA 125 levels and the therapy response. Serological follow up revealed a correlation with the clinical course of ovarian carcinoma in 84% (44/52). In patients with tumor progression the CA 125 levels increased before clinical signs of progression with median lead time of 97 days. The second look laparotomy proved, that residual tumor larger than 2 cm of diameter cause elevated levels. Smaller tumors remained marker negatives. CA 125 determination before operation, during and after therapy provide a useful tool in detecting progression and persistence of ovarian carcinoma.