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What lab value is often elevated in the presence of endometrioma?

a) CA-125
b) Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
c) Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG)
d) Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The lab value often elevated in endometrioma is CA-125. Other markers mentioned such as AFP, beta-hCG, and TSH are not typically used to assess for endometriosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lab value often elevated in the presence of an endometrioma is CA-125. Endometriomas are a type of ovarian cyst linked to endometriosis, where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside it. Measurement of CA-125, a tumor marker, is typically higher in women with endometriosis, including those with endometriomas. It's important to note that while elevated CA-125 can be a sign of endometriosis or ovarian cancer, it isn't exclusively linked to these conditions and can be elevated for other reasons.

Unlike CA-125, other markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) or beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) are not typically used to assess for endometriosis. These markers are more commonly associated with other types of conditions such as liver cancer, testicular cancer, or pregnancy, respectively. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is related to thyroid function and is not used as a marker for endometriosis.

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