Definition

Ovarian cancer is the growth of cancer cells in the ovaries. The ovaries make eggs for reproduction and female hormones. The most common type of ovarian cancer is epithelial.

Cancer occurs when cells in the body divide without control or order. If cells keep dividing uncontrollably, a mass of tissue forms. This is called a growth or tumor. The term cancer refers to malignant tumors. They can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.

Many of these tumors may grow to be very large without showing symptoms. These tumors can be hard to find during a physical exam. As a result, about 70% of patients are found with advanced disease.

Germ cell tumors come from the reproductive tissue. They account for 20% of tumors. Stromal cancers are more rare. These come from the connective cells of the ovary. They typically make hormones that cause symptoms.

Cancerous Mass in the Left Ovary Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

The causes of ovarian cancer are not known. However, research shows that certain risk factors are associated with the disease.

Risk Factors    TOP

Factors that increase your chance for ovarian cancer include:

• Family history of ovarian cancer, especially in mother, sister, or daughter
• Age: 50 or older
• Menstrual history—first period before age 12, no childbirth or first childbirth after age 30, and late menopause
• Personal history of breast cancer or endometrial cancer
• Certain gene mutations, including BRCA1, BRCA2

Use of birth control pills for more than five years appears to decrease risk.

Symptoms    TOP

Symptoms often only appear in the later stages.

Symptoms include:

• Abdominal discomfort and/or pain
• Gas, indigestion, pressure, swelling, bloating, or cramps
• Ascites
• Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or frequent urination
• Loss of appetite
• Feeling of fullness even after only a light meal
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Abnormal bleeding from the vagina
• Hair growth, voice deepening, acne, loss of menstrual periods in some rare stromal tumors

These may also be caused by other, less serious health conditions. Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor.

Diagnosis    TOP

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

Tests may include:

Treatment    TOP

Treatment depends on the extent of the cancer and your general health.

Treatments include:

Prevention    TOP

There are no guidelines for preventing ovarian cancer because the cause is unknown. Symptoms also are not present in the early stages. If you think you are at risk for ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor. Schedule check-ups with your doctor if needed. All women should have regular physical exams. These should include vaginal exams and palpation of the ovaries.