Ovarian cancer

About Ovarian cancer

A cancer growth in the ovary. Symptoms including abdominal bloating or pain can be wrongly blamed on indigestion or other gastrointestinal problems, and this can delay diagnosis of this cancer. Delay of tests and quick growth of the cancer both make it common for ovarian cancer to be advanced when first diagnosed. It is most common after age 50, but can occur at any age. There are several different types of ovarian cancer, and this cancer can be difficult to survive.

Symptoms

Sense of pelvic heaviness, vague lower abdominal discomfort, vaginal bleeding, weight gain or loss, abnormal menstrual cycles, unexplained back pain that worsens over time, increased abdominal girth, non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. One ovary may feel large on pelvic examination. Ovarian cancer is usually found by ultrasound of the pelvis. A CT scan will be done to check for cancer spread. Surgery is part of the process of diagnosis: the type of cancer will be determined from a biopsy or from evaluating the removed ovary.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, MRI, Ultrasound.

Conventional treatment summary

Surgery is the primary treatment and is often needed to diagnose the disorder. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used after surgery. After treatment the disease is monitored with blood tests to watch for changes in a protein named `CA-125,` which can be produced by ovarian cancers. People who have been treated for ovarian cancer also require CT scans to monitor for return of cancer. American Cancer Society: (800)227-2345

Medical specialties

Obstetrics and Gynecology · Oncology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Ovarian cancer.