Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian Cancer describes malignant tumors that develop in the ovary, one of the female reproductive organs. It often progresses insidiously and can advance without symptoms in the early stages. Therefore, most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage. When ovarian cancer is diagnosed early, the success of treatment is quite high. It is crucial for women, especially those with a family history, genetic predisposition (BRCA1–BRCA2 mutations), and post-menopausal women, to be carefully monitored. 695e0f
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer can develop from epithelial cells covering the surface of the ovary, egg-forming cells, or hormone-producing stromal cells. The most common type is the epithelial type. The disease often progresses insidiously; it may present with vague symptoms such as abdominal swelling, indigestion, loss of appetite, or weight loss. Ovarian cancer is the third most common gynecological cancer in women after uterine and breast cancer. 33f
How Does Ovarian Cancer Develop?
Although the exact cause is unknown, certain risk factors facilitate the development of the disease:
95 Family history of ovarian or breast cancer (especially in carriers of BRCA1–BRCA2 gene mutations)
95 Advanced age and post-menopausal period
95 Never having given birth or giving birth at an older age
95 Hormonal imbalances
95 Endometriosis
95 Conditions where ovulation continues for a long time
Protective factors include the use of birth control pills, breastfeeding, and having given birth. 4cb
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer does not show symptoms in the early stages. In advanced stages, the following symptoms may be observed:
95 Abdominal swelling or bloating
95 Gas, indigestion, or feeling full quickly
95 Weight loss or weight gain (due to fluid accumulation)
95 Groin or lower abdominal pain
95 Menstrual irregularities
95 Changes in urinary or bowel habits
If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, a gynecological evaluation should be conducted. 338
How is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?
The diagnostic process begins with a detailed examination and imaging methods. Ultrasonography (especially transvaginal ultrasound), blood tests (CA-125, HE4), and pelvic MRI are important for diagnosis. If a suspicious mass is detected, it is surgically removed for pathological examination. A definitive diagnosis is made by biopsy. In some patients, advanced imaging techniques (CT, PET-CT) are also used for staging. 97a
Stages of Ovarian Cancer
The disease is evaluated in 4 stages according to the degree of spread:
95 Stage I: Cancer is only in the ovaries.
95 Stage II: It has spread to pelvic organs (uterus, tubes, etc.).
95 Stage III: It has spread to the abdominal lining or lymph nodes.
95 Stage IV: It has metastasized to distant organs (lungs, liver, etc.).
The earlier the stage, the higher the success of treatment. 33c
Ovarian Cancer Surgery
The primary treatment for ovarian cancer is surgery. During oncological surgery, both the tumor is removed and the stage of the disease is determined. The scope of surgery includes the removal of the uterus, both ovaries, tubes, omentum (abdominal lining), lymph nodes, and affected tissues (debulking surgery). In early-stage patients who wish to preserve fertility, only the diseased ovary is removed, preserving the uterus and the other ovary. 695e0f
Chemotherapy in Ovarian Cancer
After surgery, chemotherapy is applied to most patients. Chemotherapy destroys cancer cells remaining at a microscopic level and reduces the risk of recurrence. Platinum-based drugs (carboplatin, paclitaxel) are commonly used. Treatment cycles are administered every 3 weeks and last for a total of 6 cycles. 48a
Targeted Therapies in Ovarian Cancer
In recent years, targeted drugs such as PARP inhibitors have shown promising results, especially in patients with BRCA mutations. These drugs disrupt the DNA repair mechanism of cancer cells, leading to cell death. Immunotherapies (drugs that strengthen the immune system) are also used in some cases. 9ec
Follow-up Process in Ovarian Cancer
After treatment, patients are called for check-ups every 3–6 months. Examination, CA-125 testing, and ultrasound or tomography evaluation are conducted. Regular follow-up is crucial for the early detection of recurrences. 33f
Ovarian Cancer and Fertility
If early-stage ovarian cancer is detected at a young age, fertility-preserving surgery is possible. In this case, only the ovary with the tumor is removed, preserving the uterus and the other ovary. However, fertility is generally not preserved in advanced stages. The option of egg freezing can also be considered before tumor removal. 930
| Stage | Area of Spread | Treatment Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Stage I | Only in the ovary | Surgery, limited chemotherapy if necessary |
| Stage II | Spread to pelvic organs | Surgery + Chemotherapy |
| Stage III | Involvement of abdominal lining or lymph nodes | Extensive surgery + Chemotherapy |
| Stage IV | Distant organ metastasis | Chemotherapy + Targeted therapy |
Ovarian Cancer Costs
Ovarian cancer treatment costs vary depending on the stage of the disease, the scope of surgery to be performed, the chemotherapy protocol, and the drugs used. The treatment plan is customized for the individual. For current information and evaluation, please contact our clinic. 4de
Conclusion: Although ovarian cancer does not show symptoms in the early stages, it is a disease that can be diagnosed early with regular gynecological check-ups. Today, high control rates can be achieved with surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. It is life-saving for women to know their bodies, pay attention to symptoms, and undergo regular screenings. 90d
Frequently Asked Questions About Ovarian Cancer
Question: Is ovarian cancer genetic?
Yes, women carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations have an increased risk. This can be detected with genetic tests. 9ec
Question: Can ovarian cancer be diagnosed early?
Since it does not show symptoms in the early stage, screening tests are important. Regular ultrasound and CA-125 monitoring help in early diagnosis. 705
Question: Can ovarian cancer be completely treated?
Yes, permanent recovery is possible in most cases diagnosed at an early stage. 695e0f
Question: Can one have children after ovarian cancer?
In early-stage and unilateral tumors, fertility can be maintained by preserving the uterus and the other ovary. 930
