Is CA-125 useful for diagnosing endometriosis?

CA-125 can be elevated in some people with endometriosis, but it’s not a reliable way to diagnose it. The main limitation is that CA-125 is nonspecific: it can be normal even when endometriosis is present, and it can be high for other reasons (including other pelvic conditions and benign inflammation). Because of that, a CA-125 result—whether “normal” or “high”—usually doesn’t answer the question patients actually need answered: is endometriosis the driver of your symptoms, where is it, and what else might be contributing?

In our evaluation process, we focus on your symptom patterns, a careful exam, and expertly interpreted imaging when appropriate, while also staying alert to look-alike or coexisting conditions (and, in selected cases, more serious concerns like pelvic masses). If you’ve been offered CA-125 testing, we can help you understand what it can and can’t mean in your specific situation, and map out a clearer diagnostic pathway based on the full clinical picture. If you’re ready, you can reach out to schedule a consultation with our team.