KARTSIOUNIS VASILEIOS

OVARIAN CANCER

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs. In the ovarian cancer, the ovaries are the most common type of ovarian cancer.

Content

OVARIAN CANCER

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs. In ovarian cancer, abnormal cells in the ovaries grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a malignant tumour. Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages because symptoms can be vague and similar to other common conditions.  

What are the risk factors for developing ovarian cancer?

There are several factors that can increase a person's risk of developing ovarian cancer. These include:

  • Age: The risk of ovarian cancer increases as a woman gets older, with most cases occurring in women over the age of 50.
  • Family history: Women who have a close relative, such as a mother, sister or daughter, who has had ovarian cancer are at higher risk of developing the disease themselves.
  • Inherited gene mutations: Certain inherited gene mutations, such as mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, can increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
  • Personal history of cancer: Women who have had breast cancer or other types of cancer have a slightly higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
  • Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally covers the inside of the uterus grows outside the uterus and has been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
  • Hormonotherapy: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or infertility drugs may increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

 

It is important to note that having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop ovarian cancer and some women who develop ovarian cancer have no known risk factors. If you are concerned about your risk of ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor about screening and prevention strategies.

What are the most common symptoms caused by ovarian cancer?

Symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague and may mimic other common conditions, which can make early detection difficult. Some of the most common symptoms of ovarian cancer include:

  • Abdominal swelling or bloating: This can be caused by the presence of a tumour in the ovaries or nearby areas.
  • Pelvic pain or discomfort: This can be caused by the pressure of the tumour on nearby organs or nerves.
  • Changes in bowel habits: This may include constipation or diarrhoea or changes in the size or shape of stools.
  • Frequency of urination: This may include a frequent need to urinate or difficulty emptying the bladder.
  • Quick sense of satiety while eating: This can be caused by a tumour pressing on the stomach, making it difficult to eat a full meal.

 

Other less common symptoms of ovarian cancer may include fatigue, back pain, swelling in the legs and unexplained weight loss. It's important to note that these symptoms can be caused by a variety of other conditions, but if they persist for more than a few weeks, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

How can we diagnose ovarian cancer?

There are several methods used to diagnose ovarian cancer, including:

  • Pelvic examination: During a pelvic exam, the healthcare provider will feel the ovaries and surrounding areas for any abnormalities, such as lumps or swelling.
  • Imaging: Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT, MRI or PET scans can be used to take pictures of the ovaries and surrounding tissue.
  • Blood tests: Blood tests, including CA-125, HE4 and OVA1, can be used to look for certain proteins or other substances that may be associated with ovarian cancer.
  • Biopsy: A biopsy involves taking a section of tissue from the ovary or nearby area to be examined under a microscope to see if there are cancer cells.
  • Surgery: Surgery can be performed both to diagnose ovarian cancer and to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue.

 

It is important to note that some of these tests can also be used to monitor the cancer and to see how successful the treatment is. Your doctor will determine which tests are appropriate based on your individual situation and your symptoms.

How is ovarian cancer treated?

Treatment of ovarian cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, as well as other individual factors such as age, overall health and personal preferences. Treatment options for ovarian cancer include:

Surgery: Surgery is usually the first treatment for ovarian cancer. The aim of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible, including the uterus, the affected ovary or ovaries, any nearby tissue that may be affected and the lymph nodes.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given before surgery to shrink the tumour or after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

Targeted treatment: Targeted therapy drugs target specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. This is used less often for ovarian cancer than other treatments. The specific treatment plan will depend on the stage of the cancer, as well as other individual factors. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used. Your doctor through the oncology board will determine the best treatment plan for you.

What does surgery for ovarian cancer involve?

Surgery is usually the first treatment for ovarian cancer. The aim of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible, including the uterus, the affected ovary or ovaries, any nearby tissue that may be affected and the lymph nodes.  In advanced cases of ovarian cancer, surgery may be performed to remove metastatic tumours in other organs, both abdominal and non-abdominal. Surgery for ovarian cancer is performed under general anaesthesia and patients may need to stay in hospital for a few days after surgery. Recovery time depends on the type of surgery and other individual factors, but most women can return to normal activities within a few weeks to a few months after surgery.

KARTSIOUNIS VASILEIOS
LAPAROSCOPY - ROBOTIC & GYNECOLOGICAL ONCOLOGY

At our center, we are dedicated to providing the most modern and advanced medical care to our patients, while adhering to strict medical protocols. Our mission is to create a comfortable and safe environment that puts your health and well-being first.

KARTSIOUNIS VASILEIOS
LAPAROSCOPY - ROBOTIC & GYNECOLOGICAL ONCOLOGY
5/5

*The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health care providers with questions you may have about medical conditions.

Share it !!!
SERVICES
BENIGN OVARIAN TUMOURS
GENETIC PREDISPOSITION TO CANCER ...
GENETIC PREDISPOSITION TO CANCER ...
VAGINAL CANCER
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
KARTSIOUNIS VASILEIOS
LAPAROSCOPY - ROBOTIC & GYNECOLOGICAL ONCOLOGY

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

LAPAROSCOPY - ROBOTIC & GYNECOLOGICAL ONCOLOGY

SELECT SERVICE *
CHOOSE MEDICINE
SELECT DATE AND TIME *
NAME *
email *
Comments
Phone
en_USEnglish

SARS-COV-2

The measures concerning SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) coronavirus apply in the clinic. Therefore:

  •  The visit to the clinic is ONLY by prior telephone appointment, even if
    whether it is a review, test results or prescription.
  • Please come EXACTLY at the time of your appointment.
  •  ONLY the person who is to be examined without SYNODESIS should come (unless there is
    absolute need such as a mobility problem or dementia).
  •  You must wear a MASK, which must also cover the nose
  •  Between appointments, the examination room is ventilated for 5 minutes.