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Elevated cancer antigen 125 [CA 125]

ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Elevated cancer antigen 125 [CA 125] (ICD Code: R97.1)

#### Summary
- Elevated cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) levels refer to an increased concentration of the CA 125 protein in the blood, which may be an indicator of certain medical conditions, including ovarian cancer. However, it can also be elevated in a variety of other benign conditions.

#### Causes
- Elevated CA 125 can be caused by ovarian cancer, other types of cancer (e.g., endometrial, peritoneal), menstruation, pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease, or liver disease. 

#### Risk Factors
- Risk factors include being female, having a personal or family history of cancer (especially ovarian cancer), and having certain medical conditions or treatments that can elevate CA 125 levels.

#### Symptoms
- Elevated CA 125 itself doesn’t cause symptoms, but underlying conditions like ovarian cancer may present with abdominal pain, bloating, or irregular menstrual cycles.

#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is primarily conducted through a blood test measuring levels of CA 125. Other diagnostic tools may include imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans to explore underlying conditions.

#### Treatment Options
- Treatment is based on the underlying cause of the elevated CA 125 levels. For instance, if due to ovarian cancer, options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Each treatment aims to manage the underlying disease and reduce CA 125 levels.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Prognosis depends on the underlying cause. Regular follow-ups are crucial for monitoring CA 125 levels and adjusting treatments as necessary.

#### Complications
- If high CA 125 levels are due to untreated cancer, complications can include metastasis (spread of cancer) and overall poor health outcomes.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, may help manage risk factors. Early detection and treatment of conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease can prevent complications.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek medical attention if experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort, bloating, or any signs suggestive of gynecologic problems or if previously diagnosed with cancer.

#### Additional Resources
- American Cancer Society: [www.cancer.org](https://www.cancer.org/)
- Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance: [www.ocrahope.org](https://ocrahope.org/)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate documentation of elevated CA 125 levels and associated conditions.
- Be careful not to code elevated CA 125 levels as ovarian cancer unless explicitly confirmed.

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