It can begin in either one or both ovaries and can spread to nearby areas of the abdomen and lymph nodes. Cancerous cells can grow to a size larger than 2 cm in size. Once it has spread, it may require surgery to remove it. Fortunately, there is good news. Most patients will live for several years after being diagnosed.
Ovarian cancer is a disease of older women. It rarely occurs in women younger than 40. It usually develops after menopause. African-American and non-Hispanic white women are most likely to develop this disease. Women with a body mass index greater than 30 have a higher risk. Ovarian cancer has four stages: stage I, two and three-stage. Stage one cancer is restricted to the ovaries, while stage three cancer has spread to the abdomen and solid organs.
Women with ovarian cancer should see their doctor if any of these symptoms occur. A hysterectomy may be necessary to remove the tumor. This procedure is often performed by using a needle guided by ultrasound or laparoscopy. The fluid collected during the procedure will be examined for cancer cells. Imaging tests may be needed to see if the tumor has spread. CT scan, MRI, and PET scan are some of the diagnostic tools used to examine the cancer. Urine tests are important for identifying any signs of infection. Blood in the urine is an indication that the cancer has spread to the bladder. A chest x-ray can detect tumors that have spread to the lungs.
The initial therapy for ovarian cancer is surgery. The type of procedure varies based on the location, extent, and stage of the disease. Sometimes doctors attempt to preserve fertility in young women who are low-risk for malignant disease. For women with non-epithelial ovarian cancer, preserving fertility is a goal. If the cancer is not completely removed, the patient may undergo chemotherapy in addition to radiation therapy.
In addition to causing pain, ovarian cancer can also cause symptoms, including a swollen tummy, bloating, or abnormal bowel habits. Most women with this disease experience no symptoms at all. However, those with this disease should be alert to the early signs and seek medical attention as soon as possible. The early symptoms can be very similar to other conditions. In addition to abdominal pain, ovarian cancer may also result in changes in bowel habits and unintended weight loss.
If you suspect that you have ovarian cancer, your doctor will conduct a pelvic exam and imaging tests to determine the extent of the disease. During these tests, the doctor will look for protein CA-125, which is normally found on the surface of ovarian cancer cells. A biopsy will be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Once your doctor has confirmed the diagnosis, you can start treatment. Your healthcare provider will advise you on the next steps in preventing the disease from spreading and causing symptoms.
