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Ovarian Cancer(Cancer of the Ovaries; Cancer, Ovarian)
by
Amy Scholten, MPH DefinitionOvarian cancer is when cancer cells start and grow in the ovaries. The ovaries make eggs for reproduction and female hormones. There are different types of ovarian cancer. They include:
CausesCancer happens when cells divide without control or order. These cells grow together to form a tumor. They can invade and damage nearby tissues. They can also spread to other parts of the body. It is not clear what causes changes in the cells. It is likely a combination of genes and environment. Risk FactorsOvarian cancer is most common in women age 50 or older. Other things that may raise the risk are:
SymptomsSymptoms often only appear in the later stages. They may be:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical and pelvic exam will be done. Tests may include:
Imaging tests will look for tumors and the spreading of cancer. They include:
Diagnosis is confirmed by the biopsy. The exam and test results are also used for staging. Staging outlines how far and fast cancer has spread. TreatmentThe goal is to remove the cancer. Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer. A combination of treatments may be used. Options may include:
Radiation therapy may be used to treat areas where the cancer has spread. PreventionThe risk of ovarian cancer may be reduced by:
RESOURCES:American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov References:General information about ovarian epithelial, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancer. National Cancer Institute
website. Available at:
https://www.cancer.gov/types/ovarian/patient/ovarian-epithelial-treatment-pdq. Accessed March 17, 2021. Ovarian cancer. American Cancer Society
website. Available at:
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer.html.
Accessed March 17, 2021.
Ovarian cancer. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/condition/ovarian-cancer. Accessed March 17, 2021.
Tew WP. Ovarian cancer in the older woman. J Geriatr Oncol. 2016;7(5):354-61. Last reviewed January 2021 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Mohei Abouzied, MD, FACP Last Updated: 3/17/2021 | |