Types of Gynecologic Cancers: Ovarian
A number of different types of tumors can begin in a woman’s
ovaries. Some may be benign or non-cancerous, some may be
pre-cancerous and still others may be malignant or cancerous.
A malignant tumor that begins in the ovaries is called ovarian
cancer. There are several types of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer
that begins on the surface of the ovary (epithelial carcinoma)
is the most common type.
Ovarian cancer cells can break away from the ovary and spread
to other tissues and organs. Ovarian cancer cells also can enter
the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Ovarian cancer is one of the most troubling cancers that affects
the female reproductive system. It is the fifth most common cancer
among women in the United States. About 1 in every 57 women in
the United States will develop ovarian cancer. It often goes undetected
until it becomes difficult to treat – making it one of the
most dangerous.
Ovarian Cancer Risk Factors
Although ovarian cancer is most common in women over the age of
50, with the highest risk in women over 60, it can and does occur
in women of all ages. Most ovarian cancers develop after menopause.
Women whose first-degree relatives (mother, daughter, sister)
have had ovarian cancer have a greater risk of developing the condition.
The likelihood is especially high if two or more first-degree relatives
have had the disease. The risk is somewhat less, but still above
average, if other relatives (grandmother, aunt, cousin) have had
ovarian cancer. A family history of breast or colon cancer is also
associated with an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
They may have an inherited alteration in their genetic material
(a gene mutation) that can lead to ovarian cancer and sometimes
breast cancer. The two genes that have been identified to play
a major role in ovarian cancer are BRACI and BRAC2. If a
woman inherits an altered BRACI or BRAC2 gene from her mother or
father, she is more likely to develop ovarian and breast cancer
than a woman who has not inherited the genetic alteration. Women
who are at high risk for developing ovarian cancer because of a
genetic alteration need to adapt their healthcare accordingly. This
may include more frequent breast and ovarian cancer screenings,
preventive medication or preventative surgery.
Brown Cancer Center’s gynecologic oncologists offer women
with a family history of ovarian cancer genetic education, risk
assessment and testing. They can gain a better understanding
of their risks and how they affect them or their family members.
Yet, ovarian cancer can strike virtually any woman. In fact,
most women with ovarian cancer do not have any risk factors. That’s
one reason why a diagnosis of ovarian cancer comes as such a shock.
Detecting Ovarian Cancer
Many cases of ovarian cancer go undiagnosed in the early stages
because they present symptoms that are similar to other, less
serious disorders such as simple indigestion. Many women
eventually diagnosed with ovarian cancer initially see their
physician because of gastrointestinal difficulties. Thus
women need to be aware of the signs of ovarian cancer to assist
their physicians in appropriate diagnosis – especially
if they are over age 60.
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
- A feeling of bloating
- Increasing abdominal size
- Pelvic pressure