Ovarian Cancer

From Encyclopedia of Sex and Sexuality

Ovarian carcinoma is the third most common gynecological cancer (following breast cancer and uterine cancer), but is the major cause of death from cancer of the female genital tract. Ovarian cancer is a disease of aging: its incidence rises with age up to age seventy-seven. Despite numerous investigations, the precise cause of ovarian cancer has not been determined, but it is thought to be linked to frequent ovulation. Therefore, the protective effect of several pregnancies or the use of oral contraceptives is noteworthy. On the other hand, women who experience late menopause or late childbearing are at increased risk. Ovarian cancer has also been associated with a diet high in animal fat and is more common among women with a family history of cancer, especially of the ovary or breast.

[edit] Screening and Early Diagnosis

There are no satisfying screening procedures for ovarian cancer. Nevertheless, attempts should be made to recognize the cancer as soon as possible. Symptoms in the early stages of the cancer, such as abdominal distention, pain, or discomfort are important, although they usually indicate that the cancer has spread. Enlargement of the ovary beyond 2 1/2 inches is considered abnormal. Usually an ovarian mass in a menstruating woman is a functional cyst, which will disappear spontaneously. Beyond age forty the risk of malignancy rises and the mass must be carefully evaluated. An ultrasound examination helps to evaluate the size of the ovarian mass and to differentiate between functional ovarian cysts and tumors.

[edit] Treatment

If a diagnosis of ovarian cancer is made, the surgeon will remove both ovaries and the uterus, fallopian tubes, and any other cancerous mass within the abdominal cavity. When the cancer has spread, as is the case in most patients, chemotherapy will be needed as well. It is important to discuss and realize the consequences of such treatment. Following surgery, the woman will be unable to become pregnant and will have an artificial menopause. Not all ovarian tumors are malignant. This is especially true in young women in their reproductive years. An experienced pathologist can determine the exact pathology of the tumor and a conservative treatment will suffice. In this way young women during their reproductive years will be able to conserve their fertility potential.