Ca 125 is used in diagnosis of –
**Core Concept**
The diagnosis of ovarian cancer often relies on the measurement of specific tumor markers, with CA 125 being one of the most commonly used. CA 125 is a mucin-like glycoprotein produced by the epithelial cells of the ovary, and its levels are frequently elevated in patients with ovarian cancer.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is A. Ovarian cancer because CA 125 is a sensitive marker for ovarian cancer, particularly epithelial ovarian cancer. Elevated levels of CA 125 are found in approximately 80-90% of patients with ovarian cancer, making it a useful diagnostic tool. The levels of CA 125 can also be used to monitor the progression of the disease and the response to treatment.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** Gallbladder cancer is primarily diagnosed using imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI, rather than tumor markers like CA 125.
**Option C:** Carcinoids are neuroendocrine tumors that produce various hormones, but they are not typically associated with elevated CA 125 levels.
**Option D:** Bronchogenic cancer, or lung cancer, is diagnosed using a combination of imaging studies, biopsy, and tumor markers such as CYFRA 21-1 and NSE, but not typically CA 125.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to note that elevated CA 125 levels can also be found in non-malignant conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and pregnancy, making it a non-specific marker. Therefore, a diagnosis of ovarian cancer should be confirmed using histopathological examination and imaging studies.
**Correct Answer Line**
β Correct Answer: A. Ovarian cancer