Before we begin: Ovarian cancer is a cancerous tumor that forms in the tissues of an ovary.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about ovarian cancer. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is ovarian cancer? Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the body grow out of control and form a tumor. Ovarian cancer is a cancerous tumor that forms in the tissues of an ovary. The ovaries are a pair of female reproductive glands that make eggs and female hormones.
What are the types of ovarian cancer? There are a few different types of ovarian cancer. The most common type is epithelial cancer. It begins in the cells that cover the ovary.
There are also two related types of epithelial cancer that can spread to the ovaries:
Fallopian tube cancer forms in the tissue lining a fallopian tube. The fallopian tubes are a pair of long, slender tubes on each side of the uterus. The uterus is the female reproductive organ where a fetus grows during pregnancy.
Primary peritoneal cancer forms in the tissue lining the peritoneum. Your peritoneum is a tissue lining that covers the organs in the abdomen (belly).
These two cancers are like ovarian cancer, and they have the same treatments. So some medical experts also consider those two types as ovarian cancer.
Some other rarer types of ovarian cancer are malignant germ cell tumors and stromal tumors.
What causes ovarian cancer? Ovarian cancer happens when there are changes (mutations) in the genetic material (DNA). Often, the exact cause of these genetic changes is unknown.
Most ovarian cancers are caused by genetic changes that happen during your lifetime. But sometimes these genetic changes are inherited, meaning that you are born with them. Ovarian cancer that is caused by inherited genetic changes is called hereditary ovarian cancer.
There are also certain genetic changes that can raise your risk of ovarian cancer, including changes called BRCA1 and BRCA2. These two changes also raise your risk of breast and other cancers.
Besides genetics, your lifestyle and the environment can affect your risk of ovarian cancer.
Who is more likely to develop ovarian cancer? Certain people are more likely to develop ovarian cancer. They include those who:
Have a family history of ovarian cancer in a mother, aunt, grandmother, or sister
Have inherited changes in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes
Have certain other genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome
Have endometriosis
Took hormone replacement therapy
Are overweight or have obesity
Are tall
Are older, especially those who have gone through menopause
Have never been pregnant
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer? Ovarian cancer may not cause early signs or symptoms. By the time you do have signs or symptoms, the cancer is often advanced.
The signs and symptoms may include:
Pain, swelling, or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen (belly) or pelvis
Sudden or frequent urge to urinate (pee)
Trouble eating or feeling full
A lump in the pelvic area
Gastrointestinal problems, such as gas, bloating, or constipation
How is ovarian cancer diagnosed? To find out if you have ovarian cancer, your health care provider:
Will ask about your medical history, including your symptoms
Will ask about your family health history, including relatives who have had ovarian cancer
Will do a physical exam, including a pelvic exam
Will likely do imaging tests
May do blood tests such as a CA-125 blood test
Often the only way to know for sure that you have ovarian cancer is by having a biopsy of the tissue. A biopsy is done during surgery to remove the tumor.
What are the treatments for ovarian cancer? Treatments for ovarian cancer may include:
Surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible
Chemotherapy
Targeted therapy, which uses drugs or other substances that attack specific cancer cells with less harm to normal cells
Your provider may suggest that you have genetic testing to look for the gene changes that raise the risk for ovarian cancer. Knowing whether you have the gene change may help your provider decide on your treatment plan.
NIH: National Cancer Institute
Related topics: Fallopian Tube Cancer, Primary Peritoneal Cancer.
Categories: Cancers, Women, Endocrine System, Female Reproductive System.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Cancer Institute.
Key Takeaways
Understanding ovarian cancer is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.