Causes and risk factors
Elderly women, women who have none or very few children or women who bear children at a late age are at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. Specific genetic mutations occurring in some families can increase one’s ovarian cancer risk. Other risk factors include environmental pollution, high intake of dietary fat and use of talc on the genital areas.
History of mumps infection prior to menarche and excessive ovulation caused as a result of IVF programs are also associated with a high risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Certain factors are known to have a protective effect against ovarian cancer. These include breastfeeding, having several children and use of oral contraceptive pills.
Clinical presentation
In its initial stages, ovarian cancer causes no symptoms. In later stages, ovarian cancer gives rise to symptoms like distension of the abdomen and pain or discomfort in the pelvis. The patient may complain of easy satiety, frequent urination and constipation.
Ovarian cancer can metastasize to other body structures, giving rise to additional symptoms.
Diagnosis & Investigations
Blood test is performed for a substance called CA125. USG or CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is done. An ovarian biopsy may be performed if necessary.
Treatment
Since ovarian cancer is mostly diagnosed at a late stage, the treatment has to be prompt and aggressive. Surgery is performed to remove 1 or both the ovaries. Chemotherapy may be offered to the patient.
Most cases of ovarian cancer are diagnosed after the tumor has metastasized, thus rendering the outlook poor.
