Cancer antigen-125 as a marker of ascites in patients with liver cirrhosis

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the correlation between Cancer Antigen-25 [CA-125] levels with the amount of ascites in patients with liver cirrhosis. Observational, analytical study. Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, from March 2012 to February 2013. A total of 130 patients with liver cirrhosis [with and without ascites] had serum CA-125 levels measured. The amount of ascites was classified according to physical examination and ultrasound [USG] findings. CA-125 levels were compared and correlated with amount of ascites. Majority of patients [57%] had hepatitis C virus and 60% were in class Child Pugh C. There was moderate correlation between amount of ascites and CA-125 levels [r = 0.642, p < 0.001] with significant raised levels of CA-125 in patients with ascites [p < 0.001]. There was a moderate correlation between CA-125 levels and presence and amount of ascites.