Examining Ovarian Cancer: Procedures, Outcomes, and Follow-Up Measures
In the battle against ovarian cancer, early detection is crucial, but finding the disease in its early stages is rare due to its subtle and non-specific symptoms [ACS]. If a doctor suspects ovarian cancer, they will recommend further tests and a consultation with a specialist, such as a gynecologic oncologist.
The diagnostic journey often begins with a pelvic exam, which can reveal certain signs of ovarian cancer, such as enlarged ovaries or fluid buildup within the abdomen. However, imaging tests like transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS), CT scans, MRI, and PET scans are used initially to detect ovarian abnormalities. TVUS can help identify whether an ovarian mass is solid or fluid-filled, and assess the size and appearance of the ovaries [1][5].
Blood tests are another diagnostic tool. They measure tumor markers, substances often elevated in ovarian cancer patients. The most common marker is CA-125, especially for epithelial ovarian cancer, and it aids in diagnosis and monitoring recurrence. Other markers include AFP and HCG for germ cell tumors and hormonal markers like estrogen for stromal tumors [1][2].
However, imaging and blood tests only raise suspicion and guide management. To confirm a diagnosis, a biopsy is essential. This procedure obtains tissue samples to analyze cancer presence and type definitively. Tru-cut biopsy, an image-guided procedure, has high sensitivity and positive predictive value for detecting malignancy. If surgery is not immediately feasible, a biopsy can be performed during the staging surgery, which includes hysterectomy, removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes, lymph nodes, and peritoneal washings [1][3].
If ovarian cancer spreads to more distant parts of the body, the 5-year relative survival rate decreases to 30.8%. This underscores the importance of early detection and effective treatment. Typical ovarian cancer treatments involve both surgery and chemotherapy, but treatment programs vary [6].
The American Cancer Society and the United Kingdom's National Health Service provide support for individuals with ovarian cancer. The ACS mentions that a pelvic exam typically reveals tumors that are large enough to feel, making early detection rare. The NHS offers a 24/7 cancer helpline, assistance for lodging during treatment, and assistance for rides to treatment [ACS, NHS].
Symptoms of ovarian cancer include bloating, nausea, feeling full more quickly than usual, bowel movement changes, weight loss, back pain, fatigue, and other non-specific symptoms [7]. It's important to remember that these symptoms can be caused by other conditions as well. However, if you experience these symptoms persistently and they worsen over time, it's crucial to consult a doctor.
Biopsies provide the best possible diagnostic test for ovarian cancer, as they are the only method of being certain that an ovarian growth is cancerous. A positive blood test result means that doctors have found elevated levels of certain biomarkers, which can indicate ovarian cancer but may also be caused by other conditions [8].
In the UK, the 5-year relative survival rate for ovarian cancer is around 49.7%, while for localized-stage ovarian cancer, it's around 93.1% [9]. These statistics highlight the importance of early detection and effective treatment in improving survival rates.
References:
- American Cancer Society. (2020). What Should I Ask My Doctor About Ovarian Cancer? Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/what-should-i-ask-my-doctor-about-ovarian-cancer.html
- American Cancer Society. (2020). What Are the Key Statistics About Ovarian Cancer? Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
- American Cancer Society. (2020). How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed? Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/how-is-ovarian-cancer-diagnosed.html
- American Cancer Society. (2020). How Is Ovarian Cancer Treated? Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/treatment/index.html
- National Health Service. (2020). Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/
- National Health Service. (2020). Ovarian Cancer Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/treatment/
- National Health Service. (2020). Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/symptoms/
- National Health Service. (2020). Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/diagnosis/
- National Health Service. (2020). Ovarian Cancer Statistics. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/statistics/
- In addition to a pelvic exam, blood tests measure tumor markers like CA-125, which aid in diagnosing and monitoring ovarian cancer, especially epithelial ovarian cancer.
- Since imaging tests and blood tests merely raise suspicion, a biopsy is essential for confirming an ovarian cancer diagnosis, as it is the only method of definitively detecting the presence and type of ovarian cancer.
- The importance of early detection in improving survival rates of ovarian cancer cannot be overstated, as the 5-year relative survival rate drops to 30.8% when the cancer spreads to distant parts of the body. Regular screenings and medical check-ups focused on health-and-wellness, women's health, and detection of medical-conditions help facilitate early detection and effective treatment.
