Overview
Ovarian cancer is a serious disease that originates in the ovaries, the paired female reproductive organs. These almond-sized structures play a crucial role in producing eggs (ova) and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer often remains silent in its early stages, making it challenging to detect. As the disease progresses, it can invade and destroy healthy body tissues, affecting various organs.
Types of Ovarian Cancer
- Epithelial Ovarian Carcinomas: These are the most common type of ovarian cancers, originating from the epithelial cells covering the ovary’s outer surface. Subtypes include:
- Serous Carcinomas: Accounting for 52% of cases, they can be low-grade or high-grade.
- Endometrioid Carcinomas: Slow-growing tumors with fewer symptoms.
- Mucinous Carcinomas: Affecting older women and growing slowly.
- Clear Cell Carcinomas: Rare but favorable prognosis when detected early.
- Stromal Tumors: Uncommon and usually diagnosed at an earlier stage.
- Germ Cell Tumors: Rare ovarian cancers arising from reproductive cells (eggs). They have a high survival rate.
Causes of Ovarian Cancer
While the exact cause remains unknown.
Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer
several risk factors increase the likelihood of ovarian cancer:
- Age: The risk rises with age, especially after menopause.
- Obesity: Being overweight may contribute, although the link isn’t entirely clear.
- Reproductive Factors: Having children later in life or never having a full-term pregnancy increases risk.
- Hormone Therapy: Postmenopausal hormone use (estrogens alone or with progesterone) raises the risk.
- Family History: A strong family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer elevates risk.
- Genetic Mutations: Inherited mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 play a significant role.
- Ethnicity: Caucasian women face a higher risk.
- Smoking and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome also contribute.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Recognizing ovarian cancer symptoms is crucial:1. Abdominal Enlargement or Swelling: Persistent bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
2. Abdominal Pain or Fullness: Discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen.
3. Lower Abdominal Pain: Pain specifically in the pelvic area.
4. Feeling Full After Minimal Food Intake: Early satiety even with small meals.
5. Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or weakness.
6. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits: Altered bowel movements or frequent urination.
7. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain: Significant weight changes without an apparent cause.
8. Abnormal Menstrual Cycles: Irregular periods or changes in menstrual flow.
9. Back Pain: Persistent pain in the lower back.
10. Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing due to fluid accumulation.
11. Bleeding from the Vagina: Unusual vaginal bleeding.
12. Swelling of Legs: Edema in the legs.
Preventions of Ovarian Cancer
- Consider ovary removal for genetic abnormalities (BRCA mutations).
- Regularly consult your doctor for information on treatment and side effects.
- Prioritize a nutritious diet, adequate rest, and stress management.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer
- Physical Examination: Your doctor will assess your overall health and perform a pelvic exam.
- Imaging Tests:
- Ultrasound: To visualize the ovaries and assess any abnormalities.
- CT Scan or MRI: Detailed images of the pelvic region.
- Blood Tests:
- CA-125: Elevated levels may indicate ovarian cancer, but this test isn’t specific.
- HE4: Another marker associated with ovarian cancer.
- Biopsy: Tissue samples are obtained during surgery or through minimally invasive procedures.
- Exploratory Laparotomy: Surgical exploration of the abdomen to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for Ovarian Cancer
- Surgery:
- Ovarian Tumor Removal: Depending on the stage, the surgeon removes the tumor and affected tissues.
- Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus and sometimes the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
- Chemotherapy:
- Adjuvant Chemotherapy: Given after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
- Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Administered before surgery to shrink tumors.
- Targeted Therapy:
- PARP Inhibitors: Effective for certain genetic mutations (BRCA1/2).
- Radiation Therapy: Rarely used for ovarian cancer.
- Hormone Therapy: For specific types of ovarian cancer.
- Clinical Trials: Investigational treatments.
- Palliative Care: To manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
When to seek medical attention ?
- If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially if they persist for more than a few weeks.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you have severe abdominal pain, sudden weight loss, or difficulty breathing.
