Ovarian Cancer
What are the ovaries?
The ovaries are female reproductive organs located in the pelvis. There
are two of them, one on each side of the uterus. The ovaries produce eggs
and the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen and progesterone
control the development of female body characteristics (i.e., breasts,
body shape and body hair), and regulate the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a disease in which malignant cells are found in an ovary.
There are three types of ovarian tumors, named for the tissue in which they
are found:
- epithelial cell - cells that cover the surface of the
ovary
Most of these tumors are benign. However, epithelial ovarian cancer
accounts for 85 to 90 percent of ovarian cancer cases.
- germ cell - cells that form the eggs in the ovary
- stromal cell - cells that form the ovary and produce female
hormones
What causes ovarian cancer?
The cause of ovarian cancer is not yet known.
What are risk factors for ovarian cancer?
The cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, but there are certain risk factors
that indicate an increase in a woman's chance of developing ovarian cancer.
The following have been suggested as risk factors for ovarian cancer:
- starting monthly periods early - before the age of 12
- late menopause
- long-term estrogen replacement therapy
- having a first child after the age of 30
How can ovarian cancer be prevented?
Suggested preventive measures include a:
- healthy diet (high in fruits, vegetables, grains, and low in saturated
fat)
- pregnancy and breast feeding
- hysterectomy
- tubal ligation
- removal of ovaries
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
The following are the most common symptoms of ovarian cancer. However,
each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- general discomfort in the lower abdomen, including any/all of the
following:
- feeling swollen or bloated
- a loss of appetite or a feeling of fullness - even after a light
meal
- gas, indigestion, and nausea
- weight loss
- diarrhea or constipation, or frequent urination caused by the growing
tumor, which may press on nearby organs, such as the bowel or bladder
- build up of fluid around the lungs, which may cause shortness of breath
In many cases, symptoms may be so vague that they are easily ignored.
The symptoms of ovarian cancer may resemble other conditions or medical
problems. Consult a physician for diagnosis.
How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes a medical history and physical exam, including a pelvic
exam to feel the vagina, rectum, and lower abdomen for masses or growths.
A Pap test may be requested as part of the pelvic exam. The physician may
also order other tests, including:
- ultrasound - an imaging technique that uses sound waves to
produce an image on a monitor of the abdominal organs, such as the uterus,
liver, and kidneys.
- computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) - a non-invasive procedure
that takes cross-sectional images of the brain or other internal organs;
to detect any abnormalities that may not show up on an ordinary x-ray.
The CT scan may indicate enlarged lymph nodes - a possible sign of a
spreading cancer or of an infection.
- lower gastrointestinal (GI) series - x-rays of the colon and
rectum using a contrast dye called barium.
- intravenous pyelogram (IVP) - x-ray of the kidneys and ureters,
taken after the injection of a dye.
- blood test - to measure a substance in the blood called CA-125
- a tumor marker.
- biopsy - removal of sample of tissue via a hollow needle or
scalpel.
Treatment for ovarian cancer:
Specific treatment for ovarian cancer will be determined by your physician
based on:
- your overall health and medical history
- extent of the disease
- your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- expectations for the course of the disease
- your opinion or preference
Ovarian cancer may be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy,
or a combination of these, called adjuvant therapy.
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