Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Quickly feeling full when eating
• Weight loss
• Discomfort in the pelvic area
• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
• A frequent need to urinate

Types of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is classified into several types based on the origin of the cancer cells:

• Epithelial tumors: The most common type, which starts in the tissue covering the outside of the ovaries.
• Germ cell tumors: Begin in the egg-producing cells and are more common in younger women.
• Stromal tumors: Start in the ovarian tissue that contains hormone-producing cells and are usually detected at an earlier stage.

When to Consult a Doctor

Ovarian cancer can often be challenging to detect early due to its subtle symptoms, which may include bloating, pelvic pain, and frequent urination. If you experience any of these persistent symptoms or notice changes from your norm, consult a doctor. Dr. Arvind Kumar is one of the best ovarian cancer doctors in Delhi, specializing in early detection and effective treatment.

Causes

The exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, but several factors may increase the risk, including genetic mutations (like BRCA1 and BRCA2), a family history of ovarian cancer, and age, as the risk increases with age.

Risk Factors Involved in Ovarian Cancer

• Inherited gene mutations: Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
• Family history: A family history of ovarian or breast cancer increases the risk.
• Age: Most ovarian cancers develop after menopause.
• Reproductive history: Women who have had full-term pregnancies, especially before age 26, have a lower risk.

Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Pelvic examination: To feel for abnormalities in the ovaries and nearby organs.
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound or CT scans can help detect a mass in the pelvic area.
• Blood tests: CA-125 is a protein often found at higher levels in women with ovarian cancer.
• Biopsy: A sample of tissue may be removed to confirm a diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer stages range from 1 to 4:

Stage 1: Cancer is confined to the ovaries.

Stage 2: Cancer has spread to other pelvic tissues.

Stage 3: Cancer has spread to the abdomen.

Stage 4: Cancer has spread to distant organs such as the liver or lungs.

Treatment of Ovarian Cancer

Surgical Intervention

Surgery is often the primary treatment and may include:

• Oophorectomy: Removal of one or both ovaries.
• Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, which may be recommended if the cancer has spread.
• Cytoreductive surgery: Removal of as much of the tumor as possible.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. It may also be used as the main treatment if surgery is not an option.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is less commonly used for ovarian cancer but may be recommended in certain cases to target specific areas of cancer spread.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy involves drugs that attack specific weaknesses in cancer cells, such as PARP inhibitors for BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is an emerging treatment that helps the body's immune system fight cancer, though its use in ovarian cancer is still being studied.

Palliative Care

Palliative care focuses on providing relief from symptoms and improving quality of life, often working alongside other treatments.

Prognosis

The prognosis for ovarian cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis, overall health, and response to treatment. Early detection improves the chances of successful treatment.