Ovarian Cancer
What is ovarian cancer?
In ovarian cancer, abnormal cells in the ovary begin to multiply uncontrollably, leading to tumour formation. The tumour can spread to other body parts without timely treatment, called metastatic ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer often has warning signs, but the early symptoms are not obvious. Twenty per cent of ovarian cancer cases are detected at an early stage.
What are the early symptoms of ovarian cancer?
The early symptoms of ovarian cancer are similar to those of other common diseases; symptoms may disappear but then reappear.
Early symptoms are:
- Bloating and abdominal pain
- Abnormal feeling of fullness after eating
- Abnormal digestion
- An increased amount of urine
- Frequent urination
Ovarian cancer can also cause other symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Constipation
- Back pain
- Menstrual disorders
- Painful intercourse
- Dermatomyositis (a rare inflammatory disease that can cause skin rashes, muscle weakness and muscle inflammation).
It should be noted that these symptoms can occur for any reason. They may not necessarily be caused by ovarian cancer. In many women, some of these problems occur at the same time. These symptoms are often temporary and, in most cases, are easy to treat. The symptoms will persist if they are caused by ovarian cancer. As a rule, symptoms increase as the tumour grows and the disease spreads beyond the ovaries, making effective treatment much more difficult.
Remember, if you notice any unusual symptoms, a visit to the gynecologist and a timely diagnosis will help to avoid further complications!
Types of ovarian cancer
The ovaries consist of three types of cells. Each type of cell can transform into a tumour of a different kind:
Epithelial tumours form a layer of tissue on the outside of the ovaries. About 90 per cent of ovarian cancers are epithelial tumours.
Stromal tumours develop from hormone-producing cells. Seven per cent of ovarian cancers are stromal tumours.
Germ cell tumours are rare and develop in oocytes.
Risk factors for ovarian cancer
The exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, but the following factors may increase the risk:
- Family history
- Genetic mutations in genes linked to ovarian cancer, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
- Personal history (breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer)
- Obesity
- Use of specific fertility or hormone therapies
- Endometriosis
- Older age is another risk factor. Most cases of ovarian cancer develop after menopause.
How is ovarian cancer treated?
Treatment depends on how advanced the cancer is. Your doctor will decide on a treatment plan based on your situation. It will most likely include two or more methods:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
- Immunotherapy
Surgery is the primary method of treatment for ovarian cancer. Surgery aims to remove the tumour, often requiring complete removal of the uterus, the fallopian tubes, and regional lymph nodes.
New Hospitals’ team of experienced specialists cares for women's health at all stages of life, in both therapeutic and surgical gynecology. To book a consultation, call us: 032 2 190 190
