Can Endometriosis Cause Cancer?
UPDATED ON 04 OCT. 2024
Endometriosis and the Fear of Cancer
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The Role of CA 125 in Endometriosis
It is common for patients with Endometriosis to have elevated CA 125 levels. This elevation occurs because of the severe involvement of the peritoneal lining, which is covered with endometriotic lesions.
The internet can often mislead patients into associating elevated CA 125 with ovarian cancer, increasing their anxiety.
High CA 125 Levels in Ruptured Ovarian Endometriosis
In women who experience ruptured endometriosis of the ovary and ignore the pain by opting for medical management, CA 125 levels can sometimes exceed 800 IU. While these elevated levels are concerning, they are often a result of endometriosis rather than cancer.
The Risk of Clear Cell Ovarian Cancer in Long-Standing Endometriosis
Occurrence of Clear Cell Cancer in Endometriosis Patients
Performing over 2,500 endometriosis surgeries each year, Dr. Jay Mehta, a top excisional endometriosis surgeon in India, identifies around 3-4 cases of clear cell ovarian cancer annually, typically related to long-term endometriosis.
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Ultrasound Detection of Ovarian Malignancy
Risk Factors for Clear Cell Cancer in Endometriosis
Conclusion
While elevated CA 125 levels can be a source of anxiety for Endometriosis patients, it is crucial to understand that this elevation is typically related to the disease’s impact on the pelvic lining rather than cancer.
However, prolonged and untreated Endometriosis can lead to the rare development of clear cell ovarian cancer. Early surgical intervention and monitoring are key to reducing this risk.
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How Is Endometriosis Different From Fibroids?
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