Ovarian cancer is one of the most lethal cancers affecting women, found more commonly in developed countries. The incidence rate of ovarian cancer increases with age, and parity surely plays an important role. It has been found that the higher age of women at the time of childbirth is linked to a lower incidence rate of ovarian cancer. Additionally, smoking and positive family history also enhance the chances of getting ovarian cancer. The early symptoms of the disease are non-specific, so in most cases, ovarian cancer diagnosis occurs at a later stage, limiting the treatment options.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer?
Timely ovarian cancer diagnosis plays an important role in the treatment. The earlier ovarian cancer is detected, the better prognosis it receives. The following diagnostic tests are performed to detect ovarian cancer:
Gynaecologic evaluation and Pelvic examination -
A detailed gynecologic evaluation is done with proper pelvic examination. This test gives the doctor information regarding the ovaries and other internal organs, such as the uterus, vagina, and rectum, by feeling them for any unusual findings.CT Scan (Computed Tomography Scan) -
This scan can give images of ovaries and can identify the presence of any abnormal growth.Ultrasound -
It is a technique in which sound waves are used to create an image of internal organs, and so can tell about any abnormal growth if present. To gain a better insight into ovaries, a transvaginal ultrasound is usually performed.Blood test -
It is one of the easiest tests and is often done at first once the patient is suspected of ovarian cancer. This is done to check for the presence of specific markers in blood. These biomarkers are molecules in blood which can indicate cancer by merely its presence in blood or by its abnormally increased level in the blood.Biopsy -
A small tissue segment is obtained from the ovaries. The tissue section is then analysed microscopically to detect the presence of any abnormal cells. The pathologist examines the tissue section with the help of special stains. An ovarian biopsy is mostly done during a laparotomy or laparoscopy. It is done to remove ovarian tumours. It is also done to stage cancer and identify the spread of cancer.Genetic testing -
It is done to stage ovarian cancer. Once the presence of ovarian cancer is confirmed, advanced genetic testing is done to identify the mutations present in cells and identify the stage depending upon the aggressiveness of the cancer.
Conclusion
Correct diagnosis and detailed pathological reports are important and necessary for characterisation of the ovarian cancer and for making treatment decisions. Surgical management of ovarian cancer is mostly the first choice, along with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Most of the treatments for ovarian cancer are expensive and can put an extra economic burden, so opting for health insurance would surely help you to reduce this extra load.