ovarian cancer

Ovarian Cancer: A Growth of Uncontrolled Cells

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the ovaries, which are two small organs located on either side of the uterus in the female reproductive system [6]. The ovaries contain eggs that are released monthly during ovulation and also secrete hormones such as estrogen and progesterone [6].

What Happens in Ovarian Cancer

In ovarian cancer, abnormal cells in the ovary begin to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way, eventually forming a growth (tumour) [3]. If not caught early, these cancer cells can gradually grow into the surrounding tissues and may spread to other areas of the body [3].

Types of Ovarian Cancer

There are several types of ovarian cancer, with epithelial ovarian cancer being the most common type, accounting for more than 95% of cases [15]. Other types include germ cell, sex-cord stromal, and small cell ovarian cancers [15].

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

The symptoms of ovarian cancer may include pelvic or abdominal pain, discomfort or bloating, changes in eating habits, vaginal discharge or abnormal bleeding, especially if the bleeding occurs outside of your typical menstrual cycle or after you’ve stopped menstruating [2]. In later stages, symptoms can also include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting [13].

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of ovarian cancer is not known, it is believed to be related to genetic mutations that occur in the cells of the ovary. Sometimes, ovarian cancer runs in families, indicating a possible genetic link [12].

Common Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer can be a serious health issue, and it's essential to recognize its early warning signs. According to various medical sources [1][2], the following are some common symptoms associated with ovarian cancer:

• Abdominal bloating or swelling: This is one of the most common symptoms, where the abdomen may feel swollen or bloated due to fluid accumulation [3].
• Pain in the pelvic area: Pain or discomfort in the lower abdominal region can be a sign of ovarian cancer [4][5].
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits: Some people may experience changes in their bowel movements or urination patterns, such as constipation or an increased urge to urinate [6].
• Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired or exhausted is another symptom that can be associated with ovarian cancer [7].
• Back pain: Pain in the back can also be a sign of ovarian cancer, particularly if it's accompanied by other symptoms like bloating or pelvic pain [8].

It's essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, and only a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose ovarian cancer. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.

References:

[1] Apr 11, 2018 — Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer [2] May 9, 2023 — Abdominal bloating or swelling [3] Nov 2, 2022 — Early satiety, or feeling full quickly; Abdominal pain [4] What are the early warning signs of ovarian cancer? [5] Jan 10, 2024 — What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer? [6] Main symptoms of ovarian cancer [7] Result: accumulation of fluid under the skin | general abdominal pain, cramps, or spasms | loss of appetite | loss of sensations | weight loss

Diagnostic Tests for Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer diagnosis involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and laboratory tests to confirm the presence of cancer cells in the ovaries.

• Pelvic Exam: A pelvic exam is usually the first step in diagnosing ovarian cancer. During this exam, your doctor inserts gloved fingers into your vagina to feel for lumps or changes in and around the ovaries [1].
• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, barium enema x-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, chest x-ray, and positron emission tomography (PET) scans are used to visualize the ovaries and surrounding tissues [3].
• Blood Tests: Blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry tests, and tumor marker tests such as CA-125, are used to detect cancer cells in the blood [5].
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a common imaging test used to diagnose ovarian cancer. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the ovaries and surrounding tissues [2].
• CT Scan: A CT scan is another imaging test that uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the ovaries and surrounding tissues [3].

Other Tests

In addition to these tests, your doctor may also perform a rectovaginal pelvic exam, a transvaginal ultrasound, or a CA-125 blood test if you have symptoms or risk factors for ovarian cancer [4]. A complete physical examination, including a health history and physical exam, is also an essential part of the diagnostic process [5].

References

[1] May 9, 2023 — Tests and procedures used to diagnose ovarian cancer include: Pelvic exam. During a pelvic exam, your doctor inserts gloved fingers into ...

[2] Jul 24, 2020 — The 2 tests used most often (in addition to a complete pelvic exam) to screen for ovarian cancer are transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and the CA-...

[3] Nov 17, 2022 — Imaging tests · Ultrasound · Computed tomography (CT) scans · Barium enema x-ray · Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans · Chest x-ray · Positron ...

[4] Sep 9, 2024 — Ask your doctor if you should have a diagnostic test, like a rectovaginal pelvic exam, a transvaginal ultrasound, or a CA-125 blood test if you...

[5] Diagnosis of ovarian cancer · Health history and physical exam · Ultrasound · Tumour marker tests · Complete blood count (CBC) · Blood chemistry tests · CT scan · MRI.

Ovarian Cancer Drug Treatments

Ovarian cancer can be treated using various drug therapies, which are often used in combination with other treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy.

• PARP Inhibitors: Niraparib (Zejula) and rucaparib (Rubraca) are types of PARP inhibitors that may be prescribed to treat ovarian cancer that has

Differential Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer can be challenging to diagnose, and a differential diagnosis is essential to rule out other conditions that may present with similar symptoms. Here are some key points to consider:

• Adnexal Tumors: These are tumors that occur in the adnexa, which includes the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and surrounding tissues. Adnexal tumors can be benign or malignant, and they can mimic ovarian cancer in terms of presentation [1].
• Anovulation: This refers to a condition where the ovaries do not release an egg during ovulation. Anovulation can lead to hormonal imbalances and symptoms that may be similar to those experienced by women with ovarian cancer [2].
• Appendicitis: This is inflammation of the appendix, which can cause abdominal pain, fever, and other symptoms that may be mistaken for ovarian cancer [3].
• Ascites: This refers to the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, which can be a sign of advanced ovarian cancer. However, ascites can also occur due to other conditions such as liver disease or heart failure [4].
• Borderline Ovarian Cancer: This is a type of ovarian tumor that has the potential to become malignant but does not exhibit invasive growth. Borderline tumors can be challenging to diagnose and may require surgical intervention [5].

Key Diagnostic Considerations

When diagnosing ovarian cancer, it's essential to consider the following:

• Age of Onset: Ovarian cancer is more common in postmenopausal women, so a diagnosis should take into account the patient's age and menopausal status [6].
• Vaginal Discharge: A change in vaginal discharge can be an early sign of ovarian cancer. However, this symptom can also occur due to other conditions such as vaginitis or cervical cancer [7].
• Constitutional Symptoms: Ovarian cancer can cause systemic symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, and pain. These symptoms should be taken into account when making a differential diagnosis [8].

Diagnostic Tests

Several diagnostic tests are available for ovarian cancer, including:

• Transvaginal Ultrasound: This is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries and surrounding tissues.
• Biopsy: A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue from the affected area for examination under a microscope.

References:

[1] Context 1 [2] Context 2 [3] Context 4 [4] Context 5 [5] Context 3 [6] Context 4 [7] Context 7 [8] Context 7