Approximately 19 percent of cases of ovarian cancer are detected during the early stages. While it is rare for a woman to contract the disease during her lifetime, chances of ovarian cancer are still 1 in 100. Early-stage ovarian cancer causes few to no symptoms, but those that do occur may be mistaken for common benign conditions. Here is a closer look at these early-stage symptoms. Symptoms of ovarian cancer may be more severe than those of other forms of cancer.
A biopsy is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of ovarian cancer. This procedure involves the removal of a sample of the affected ovary. The sample is then examined under a microscope to identify cancer. If cancer cells are present, the cancerous growth will be removed and sent for further evaluation. If a biopsy is necessary, treatment will vary. For women diagnosed with ovarian cancer, treatment options will vary.
The main types of ovarian cancer are stromal tumors and epithelial tumors. While both types are considered malignant, the latter are less likely to spread. In contrast, benign tumors increase in size over time and pose no immediate risk to health. Ovarian cancer is characterized by rapid growth and spread to other parts of the body. The survival rate for women with ovarian cancer is only about 75%.
The most common type of ovarian cancer is stromal, which affects the outer lining of the ovaries. It can also spread to other organs in the pelvic area or beyond. Surgery is the most common form of treatment for ovarian cancer. This procedure often involves removing a tumor from the ovary. The surgeon may also remove fallopian tubes, pelvic tissue, and nearby lymph nodes. Research has improved treatment for ovarian cancer, including the use of targeted therapies. The goal of these treatments is to kill the cancer cells without damaging normal cells.
Although ovarian cancer symptoms may not be present in early stages, many women experience abdominal pain, bloating, or a change in eating habits. In some women, these symptoms are similar to those of menstrual cramps, but they may indicate the presence of ovarian cancer. However, women with a history of ovarian cancer may experience bloating, nausea, and constipation. Ascites can also compress the bladder wall, causing an increased urge to urinate.
The two most common types of treatment for ovarian cancer are surgery and radiation therapy. The goal of both treatments is to reduce symptoms and prolong the life of a patient. Surgery can remove the entire ovary or just the cancer cells. Radiation therapy, on the other hand, kills cancer cells and prevents them from growing. External radiation therapy involves a machine that emits radiation from outside the body. Intense radiation therapy is most often used for ovarian cancer, while surgery can be an effective alternative.
Although ovarian cancer is the most common type of tumor found in women, it can be caused by benign cysts in the ovaries. A benign cyst is called a dermoid cyst and can be removed. However, if it is large, it can cause abdominal pain and can lead to constipation. The cancer may also present a mass on the abdominal cavity. These conditions should not be ignored and should be treated as soon as possible.
