[CA 125, CA 19.9, MCA, CEA, 17 beta-estradiol and progesterone in functional and benign cysts and carcinoma of the ovary].

CA 125, CA 19.9, CEA, MCA, E2 and P levels have been assessed in the serum and in the ovarian mass fluid of 216 patients through echo-guided puncture to distinguish between functional, benign and malignant cystic neoplasm. Statistically evaluated data have been assessed through histological diagnosis in 122 cases: cyst fluid markers do not always differentiate ovarian carcinoma from benign cysts, while they have a significant concentration in persistent functional cysts (follicular and luteal) if compared with benign and malignant neoplasms. The following management is suggested: 1) Echo-guided puncture in case of simple, persistent ovarian cyst with low levels of CA 125 and CA 19.9 in serum; 2) Operation in case of fatty, chocolate or mucinous fluid. Wait and see if the fluid is either clear or hematic/chocolate with high P levels (luteal cyst); 3) Operation on simple cyst with high CA 125 ald low E2 and P levels (serous c.), in case of relapse or persistence after aspiration; 4) Wait and see if CA 125 is low and E2 and P levels are high (follicular c.).