PATHOLOGIES
OVARIAN CANCER
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the ovaries, the female reproductive glands responsible for producing eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. It is often called the “silent killer” because its early symptoms are subtle and easily mistaken for common conditions. Ovarian cancer is typically classified into three types based on the cells where it begins: epithelial tumors (the most common type), germ cell tumors, and stromal tumors.
OVARIAN CANCER
Risk factors for ovarian cancer include age (most cases occur after menopause), genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, family history of ovarian or breast cancer, endometriosis, and infertility. Symptoms often become noticeable only in advanced stages and may include persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and changes in bowel or urinary habits.
Diagnosis usually involves a combination of imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans, blood tests to measure tumor markers like CA-125, and sometimes surgical exploration or biopsy. Unfortunately, there are no reliable screening tests for early-stage ovarian cancer, which makes regular health check-ups crucial, especially for high-risk individuals.
Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the ovaries and surrounding affected tissues, often followed by chemotherapy to target any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapy may be used.
Early detection significantly improves survival rates, so recognizing symptoms and seeking medical advice promptly is essential. Preventive measures, such as genetic testing for at-risk individuals, oral contraceptives (shown to reduce risk), and a healthy lifestyle, can also help lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Advances in research continue to offer hope for improved treatments and outcomes.
