preview

Ovarian Cancer What is Ovarian Cancer? Ovarian cancer is the abnormal growth of malignant cells

Good Essays

Ovarian Cancer

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is the abnormal growth of malignant cells in the ovaries, the egg (ovum) producing part of the female reproductive system. Often, Ovarian cancer goes undetected until it has metastasized (spread) to the pelvis and abdomen. At this late stage, this cancer is difficult to treat. Ovarian Cancer ranks as the 11th most common cancer among women, and it is the 5th leading cause of cancer-related death for women.

What different types of ovarian cancers exist?

Epithelial tumors are both benign and malignant tumors that develop in the epithelium, the thin layer of cells that cover the ovaries. These tumors usually form on the ovaries of women who have stopped their menstrual cycle. Malignant …show more content…

Ultrasounds use sound waves to create images of the ovaries. Ultrasounds are often the first test performed if a problem with the ovaries is suspected. This imaging can reveal a suspected tumor’s size and composition.

Computed tomography (CT) scans produce detailed, 360 degree images of your body for evaluation by your healthcare provider. CT scans are useful tools in determining whether ovarian cancer has spread to secondary locations.

Positron emission tomography (PET) scans test concentrations of radioactive glucose (a form of sugar) present in the patient’s body via a special camera. Cancer cells absorb an abnormal amount of radioactive glucose due to their high rate of metabolism, thereby making their detection via PET scan highly accurate. PET scans are particularly good at detecting metastases (the spreading) of cancer cells.
Laparoscopy consists of inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the body, through which a doctor can look at the ovaries and other pelvic organs and tissues in the area. The tube is inserted through a small incision (cut) in the lower abdomen and projects images of the ovaries to a video monitor. Laparoscopy provides images of ovaries that help plan surgery or other treatments for Ovarian cancer; they can also help doctors confirm the stage (how far the tumor has spread) of the cancer. Doctors can manipulate small instruments through the laparoscopic incision(s) to perform biopsies.
Biopsy is only way to determine for certain if

Get Access