What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive glands that produce eggs. It is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because early-stage ovarian cancer rarely causes symptoms. There are several types of ovarian cancer, with epithelial ovarian cancer being the most common.
Treatment Process
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of pelvic examinations, imaging tests (such as ultrasound or CT scans), and blood tests to measure tumour markers e.g. CA-125 levels.
Surgery
The primary treatment for ovarian cancer is cytoreductive surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. This may include removing one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus, omentum, lymph nodes and other affected tissues.
Chemotherapy
Post-surgery, intravenous chemotherapy is often used to kill any remaining cancer cells. There is an option of administering chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity (intraperitoneal chemotherapy-HIPEC) in some selected cases.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapies, such as PARP inhibitors, may be used for certain types of ovarian cancer, particularly those with BRCA mutations/ HRD positive cancer.
Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor for recurrence and manage any side effects of treatment.
Popular Questions
Symptoms can include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating, and urinary symptoms. These symptoms are often vague and can be mistaken for other conditions.
Staging is based on the extent of the cancer spread, ranging from Stage I (confined to the ovaries) to Stage IV (spread to distant organs).
Risk factors include age, family history of ovarian or breast cancer, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2), endometriosis, reproductive history etc.
While there is no sure way to prevent ovarian cancer, risk can be reduced through the use of oral contraceptives, tubal ligation, and prophylactic removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes in high-risk women.
Prognosis depends on the type of ovarian cancer, stage at diagnosis and the success of the initial treatment. Early-stage and low grade ovarian cancer has a better prognosis than advanced-stage cancer.
Research is ongoing, and new treatments, including immunotherapy and personalized medicine, are being explored.
Genetic testing can identify mutations that increase the risk of ovarian cancer and help guide treatment decisions. Those with known BRCA mutations should undergo removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes after child bearing is complete, in order to reduce the risk of development of ovarian cancer.
Providing emotional support, helping with daily tasks, and accompanying them to medical appointments can be very helpful.
Common Myths
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1. Myth: Ovarian cancer only affects older women.Fact: Although the risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, it can affect women of all ages. Younger women, in particular, can develop ovarian cancer, especially germ cell tumors of the ovary.
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2. Myth: Ovarian cysts are always cancerous.Fact: Most ovarian cysts are benign and not cancerous. However, persistent or complex cysts should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
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3. Myth: 3. Ovarian cancer is always fatal.Fact: 3. Even stage IV ovarian cancers are treated with a curative intent, unlike other cancers where stage IV disease is mostly palliative. While ovarian cancer can be serious, most women even at late stages, respond well to treatment, Advances in treatment have significantly improved survival rates.
Dr. Neha Agarwal's Expertise in Kolkata
Dr. Neha Agarwal, based in Kolkata, is a leading expert in the management of early and advanced ovarian cancers. With her extensive training and experience, Dr. Agarwal provides comprehensive care, from accurate diagnosis to advanced surgical techniques and personalized treatment plans. Her compassionate approach ensures that patients receive the best possible care and support throughout their treatment journey.
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