Unusually elevated CA19.9 with adnexal mass: Does it lead to some conclusions or confusion?

Abstract

Elevated level of CA19.9 is usually associated with malignancies of the hepatobiliary and the pancreatic system. It not only helps to diagnose the malignancy, but also ever high levels can indicate advanced or metastatic diseases [1]. However in rare instances elevated CA19.9 has been found in patients with adnexal masses. This is not only uncommon but also confounding, while trying to ascertain the nature of the ovarian mass and to determine the optimal surgical management in young and premenopausal patients. We would like to report three such cases who had presented with ovarian mass and very high levels of CA 19.9 which led us to diagnostic dilemma and much confusion.