Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is one of the worst gynecological cancers as it is usually discovered late.
The symptoms are very vague and that’s why the disease is usually discovered late with advanced stages.

Symptoms:
-    Bloating
-    Abdominal distention
-    Pain
-    Early satiety
-    Urinary frequency
-    Change in bowel habits
-    Weight loss
-    Loss of appetite

Risk factors:
-    Nulliparity
-    Advanced age
-    Genetic mutations
-    Endometriosis
-    Using hormone replacement therapy

How is it diagnosed?
-    History taking
-    Physical examination that involves pelvic examination
-    Ultrasound scan
-    Complementary MRI or CT scan
-    Blood tests like tumor markers
-    Definitive diagnosis with histopathology after surgical resection or biopsy

How is it treated?
-    Surgical resection
-    Chemotherapy
-    Hormonal therapy

What about the prognosis?
Usually, it is poor as the diseases is usually caught late

Does using ovulation induction medications increase the risk of ovarian cancer?
Evidence is mixed and overall reassuring

If it was caused by gene mutations, what other types of cancers might accompany it?
Gene positive breast cancer

Is pregnancy protective from ovarian cancer?
Yes, also breastfeeding is protective, as both inhibit monthly ovulation preventing repeated trauma to ovarian cortex

Can fertility be preserved when treating ovarian cancer?
Yes, through egg freezing and trying to preserve the uterus if the disease is early in its course and not invading adjacent organs

Can we screen for the disease?
Unfortunately, no, there is no screening test thus it can’t be prevented

Dr Najeeb Layyous  F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist