Elevated CA 125 in advanced abdominal or pelvic tuberculosis

Abstract

Three cases with advanced pelvic or abdominal tuberculosis showed marked elevation of CA 125. This observation should help clinicians to entertain a possible diagnosis of abdominopelvic tuberculosis and undertake diagnostic laparoscopy, thus avoiding laparotomy where possible. It is suggested that all women who present with adnexal or abdominopelvic mass and/or ascites be tested for CA 125; raised levels may not be due to ovarian malignancy but could be due to tuberculosis.