Cancer that develops in the ovaries (the egg-producing reproductive organs) is referred to as ovarian cancer.
There are three types of ovarian cancer.
Each throw in has differences in how they will respond to treatment.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
1.
Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma
Epithelial ovarian carcinoma is the most common key in of ovarian cancer.
The different subtypes of epithelial ovarian cancer are:
Epithelial ovarian cancer is also classified by grade.
Serous is the most common subtype and is classified into one of the two grades.
Mucinous, endometrioid, and clear cell cancers are less common and have unique characteristics and treatments.
Germ Cell Tumors
Germ cell tumors are a less common bang out of ovarian cancer.
Low-grade tumors grow more slowly and may not spread as quickly.
High-grade tumors grow faster and may spread to other parts of the body.
This information can help determine the best treatment.
These cancers tend to be slow-growing and are most often diagnosed at an earlier stage.
Many people do not realize something is wrong until the cancer has grown or spread.
Imaging Studies
An ultrasound is commonly used to evaluate the ovaries.
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries.
This can help determine if there is any abnormal growth.
Ultrasounds can be performed on the abdomen, through the vagina (transvaginal ultrasound), or both.
During a biopsy, a sample of tissue is evaluated in the lab for the presence of cancer cells.
With ovarian cancer, the tumor sample is usually obtained when the tumor is surgically removed.
The sample may be genetically tested to identify specific characteristics of the cancer.
After the biopsy results are known, a final treatment plan can be determined.
Early diagnosis is important because ovarian cancer is easier to treat when found early.
Here are the common treatments for each punch in.
Another treatment is immunotherapy, which helps the bodys immune system fight the cancer more effectively.
Germ Cell Tumors
Chemotherapy frequently is given after surgery.
BEP (bleomycin, etoposide, cisplatin) is the most common chemotherapy regimen.
Stromal Tumors
Surgery is often the primary treatment, particularly for slow-growing tumors.
By removing the tumor, healthcare providers aim to eliminate as much of the cancer as possible.
In some cases, additional treatments may be necessary to prevent recurrence or to manage any remaining cancer cells.
Hormone therapy is another option, especially for stromal tumors that produce excess hormones.
Some individuals may also participate in clinical trials, accessing new and potentially effective treatments.
Even if the symptoms seem mild, getting checked early can help find problems sooner.
You should also see a provider if you have a family history of ovarian cancer or other related cancers.
Symptoms can be mild or mistaken for other issues, making early detection difficult.
Healthcare providers use exams, imaging tests, and biopsies to diagnose ovarian cancer.
Treatment often includes surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
Regular checkups and paying attention to unusual symptoms can provide early detection and improve treatment outcomes.
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