How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?
If an ovarian growth is suspected, an ultrasound of
the ovaries is done. If any abnormality is detected, further testing
will be done. . Tests include blood studies, CT scans, barium enema
X-rays, colonoscopy, MRI, and chest X-rays to help evaluate the extent
of the cancer. Ultimately, the surgical opening of the abdomen
(exploratory laparotomy) is necessary to confirm or rule out an ovarian
cancer diagnosis.
Genetic
testing may be useful for women who have a family history of ovarian,
uterine (endometrial), or breast cancer. This testing can reveal if you
have inherited a gene mutation that is associated with increased risk
of ovarian cancer. However, the presence (or lack) of these mutations
does not necessarily predict whether you will go on to develop ovarian
cancer. And, if you carry a mutation and want to take steps to help
prevent ovarian cancer, –you may consider removal of the ovaries.
What Are the Treatments for Ovarian Cancer?
Surgery is the standard treatment for ovarian
cancer. Ordinarily, the two ovaries and the other reproductive organs
are removed. Young women who have only a small tumor in one ovary and
who still want to have children may have just the cancerous ovary
removed; the second can be removed later to prevent cancer recurrence.
In most women, some cancer remains after surgery. A
woman's prognosis depends on how much cancer remains and how well it
responds to follow-up treatment. Most women receive chemotherapy, which
can prolong survival and may result in a cure. Radiation therapy may be
used to help alleviate symptoms or in certain patients with advanced
disease. Even if no cancer is detected after treatment, follow-up exams
are essential; women who have had the disease may be at greater risk
for breast and colorectal cancer.
New chemotherapy drugs, biological drugs, and new methods of delivering treatment with fewer side effects, are being studied.
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