The use of serial CA 125 concentrations to monitor endometriosis in infertile women

Article Abstract:

Endometriosis, a condition in which uterine tissue grows in abnormal locations in the pelvis, can be difficult to detect and treat and is associated with infertility. This article discusses the usefulness of measuring CA 125 (a protein in the blood) for monitoring women with endometriosis. CA 125 levels were determined in 134 women prior to surgery for endometriosis; 76 women had levels considered elevated (16 or more units per milliliter). Women whose CA 125 levels fell by at least 40 percent after surgery were considered to have a good prognosis for fertility, and those whose levels did not fall that much, or whose levels increased, were considered to have a smaller chance of conceiving. Pregnancy rates during the following 18 months were higher in the good-prognosis group than the poor-prognosis group. Most women who underwent a second surgical procedure had endometriosis; these findings were correlated with CA 125 levels. Determination of CA 125 levels in women with endometriosis appears to provide useful information regarding the stage of the disease and the probability of becoming pregnant. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Evaluation, Complications and side effects, Medical screening, Health screening

---

Are there any clinical signs and symptoms that are related to endometriosis in infertile women?

Article Abstract:

The presence of nodules and tenderness in the uterus and sacral area of the spine may indicate the development of endometriosis in infertile women. Endometriosis is the buildup of menstrual tissue and cysts in the uterus, which may cause pain and infertility. Researchers compared the symptoms and laparoscopic findings of 174 infertile women with endometriosis to those of 174 infertile women without endometriosis. Women with endometriosis were more likely to have uterosacral nodules and tenderness than women without endometriosis, with rates of 6.3% in the first group and 0% in the second. Retroverted uterus and obstructed Douglas pouch were more prevalent among women with endometriosis. Nodules in the uterus and sacral area may be the best indication of endometriosis in infertile women.

---

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: The impact of luteal phase inadequacy in an infertile population. Absorption of oral progesterone is influenced by vehicle and particle size
• Abstracts: The spectrum of Mycobacterium kansasii disease associated with HIV-1 infected patients. Nitrite inhalant abuse and AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma
• Abstracts: Antral Helicobacter pylori in patients with chronic renal failure. Oestrogen receptors in colorectal carcinoma

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.