Ovarian cancer is the second most common gynecologic cancer and causes the most deaths. It is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are the reproductive glands that produce eggs or ova.

Ovarian cancer is often called a silent killer because it is difficult to diagnose and symptoms typically do not occur until the cancer has advanced.

Types of Ovarian Cancer

There are three main types of ovarian cancer:.

: Epithelial tumors

These are the most common types of ovarian cancer and account for 90% of all cases. They develop in the thin layer of tissue that covers the ovaries.

: Germ cell tumors

These tumors develop in the egg-producing cells of the ovaries. They occur most often in younger women and are typically benign.

: Stromal tumors

These tumors develop in the hormone-producing cells of the ovaries. They are less common than epithelial tumors, but can be more dangerous.

Diagnosing Ovarian Cancer

Because ovarian cancer often presents with few or no symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose. However, early detection is key to successful treatment. There are several methods used to diagnose ovarian cancer:.

: Physical Exam

Your doctor will perform a pelvic exam to feel for any abnormalities or changes in the ovaries.

: Imaging Tests

Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI scans can provide detailed images of the ovaries and surrounding tissues.

: Blood Tests

Blood tests can detect certain substances that are often elevated in the presence of ovarian cancer, such as cancer antigen 125 (CA-125). However, these tests can sometimes produce false positives and do not definitively diagnose ovarian cancer.

: Biopsy

A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue from the ovaries to be examined under a microscope. This is the most definitive way to diagnose ovarian cancer.

Related Article Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer

Staging Ovarian Cancer

Once ovarian cancer has been diagnosed, it is important to determine the stage of the cancer, or how advanced it is. Ovarian cancer is staged using the FIGO system:.

: Stage I

The cancer is limited to the ovaries.

: Stage II

The cancer has spread to other parts of the pelvis.

: Stage III

The cancer has spread to the abdomen and/or lymph nodes.

: Stage IV

The cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or liver.

Treatment Options for Ovarian Cancer

The treatment options for ovarian cancer depend on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the woman’s overall health.

: Surgery

Surgery is usually the first step in treating ovarian cancer. The surgeon will remove as much of the cancer as possible, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, lymph nodes, and any other affected tissues.

: Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be given before or after surgery, depending on the stage and type of cancer.

: Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. It is not typically used to treat ovarian cancer, but may be used in certain cases.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer is a serious and often deadly cancer that affects the ovaries. Early detection and treatment are key to successful outcomes. If you are experiencing any symptoms or have concerns about ovarian cancer, be sure to talk to your doctor.