Correlations between periovulatory serum and follicular fluid CA-125 and granulosa cell hormones after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the presence and concentration of CA-125 in periovulatory follicular fluid (FF) and serum after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation and to determine if the CA-125 in these two compartments could be related to granulosa cell markers such as inhibin or estradiol.

STUDY

DESIGN

Fifteen women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for in-vitro fertilization-embryo transfer were studied. A transvaginal, ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration was performed. CA-125, inhibin, estradiol and FSH were measured in FF and serum. Pearson and Spearman's Rank Correlation tests were performed.

RESULTS

CA-125 was measurable in 59% of follicles. Values ranged from undetectable to 3630 U/ml. Serum CA-125 ranged from undetectable to 126 U/ml. CA-125 and inhibin correlated negatively in FF and positively in serum.

CONCLUSION

CA-125 was present in significant but variable concentrations in 59% of periovulatory follicles. A negative correlation was noted between CA-125 and inhibin or estradiol in the FF and a positive correlation with serum inhibin. No correlations were noted to oocyte retrieval or fertilization.