Role of CA-125 as a Predictive Factor for Ovarian Tumors in Iraqi Pregnant Women with Severe Vaginal Bleeding
1
M.B.Ch. B D. G. O, C. A. B. O. G, Senior obstetrician and gynaecologist / Al-Ramadi maternity Teaching Hospital, Al-Anbar /Ramadi/Ministry of Health and Environment;
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C.A.B.O.G, Fellowship of The Arabic Board of Health Specialization in Obstetrics and Gynaecology;
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Middle Technical University / College of Medical &Health Technology, Medical laboratory techniques dep. / Baghdad/Iraq;
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College of Science, Mustansiryah University
Received: 2025-01-14
Revised: 2025-02-27
Accepted: 2025-03-28
Published: 2025-04-06
Background: This case-control study aimed to evaluate the role of Cancer Antigen 125 (CA-125) in Iraqi pregnant women experiencing vaginal bleeding, with a focus on its potential as a diagnostic marker for complications during pregnancy and predictive diagnostic cancer. Methods: A total of 23 pregnant women with vaginal bleeding were enrolled in the study in January 2025. Participants were divided into two groups: 7 women with normal CA-125 levels (control group) and 17 women with elevated CA-125 levels, diagnosed by obstetricians and gynaecologists. Venous blood samples were collected and analysed for CA-125, Vitamin D, and other relevant biochemical markers using standardised laboratory techniques. Results: The mean age of participants was 25.61 ± 3.14 years, with a body mass index (BMI) of 26.83 ± 5.13 kg/m². Most women reported bleeding for less than a week (73.91%). Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in CA-125 levels between the two groups, with the predictive group showing higher levels (67.7 ± 8.77 U/mL) compared to the non-predictive group (20.3 ± 2.54 U/mL; p < 0.001). No significant differences were found in Vitamin D levels or other biochemical parameters between the two groups. Conclusion: Elevated CA-125 levels in pregnant women with vaginal bleeding may provide valuable diagnostic insights. Further studies are warranted to explore the clinical implications of CA-125 as a biomarker in obstetric care, particularly in populations with high rates of complications.
CA-125, pregnancy, vaginal bleeding, diagnostic marker, Iraq.