What is cancer of the ovary?
This type of cancer develops in one or both of the ovaries. The ovaries are the part of the female reproductive system that produces eggs and the hormones that regulate fertility.
Ovarian cancer usually starts in the lining of the ovary, the epithelium. There are various types of epithelial cancers including:
Types of Ovarian cancer
Serous Mucinous Endometriod Clear cell Undifferentiated or unclassifiedThere are other rare types of ovarian cancer, which includeteratomas and germ cell tumours.
What can cause cancer of the ovary?
There is no clearly defined or known cause for cancer of the ovary. It is more commonly found in women who have not had any children. There is a genetic link to ovarian cancer; therefore a strong family history of the disease should be investigated.
Other factors that can affect a woman’s chance of developing ovarian cancer include
Factors
A decrease in risk if you have taken the contraceptive pill A slight increase in risk if you have drug treatment for infertilityWhat are the symptoms?
Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most common early sign. It will usually occur between periods in pre-menopausal women.
If you experience any of the symptoms described, go to your GP as soon as possible. Similar symptoms can occur in other conditions and does not necessarily mean that you have ovarian cancer.
What the GP may do
Tests may include:
Hysteroscopy - a small camera is used to examine the inside ofthe uterus Biopsy - a small area of the affected region is removed and sent to the labs for analysis Dilatation and curettage (D and C) - this procedure is carried outunder general anaesthetic, and involves taking samples fromthe womb Vaginal ultrasound - a device inserted into the vagina usessoundwaves to build up a picture of the womb Blood tests X-rays Computerised tomography (CT) - a special type of x-ray thatgives very detailed pictures Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - this also gives very detailedpictures but uses magnets instead of x-raysIs Treatment available?
Treatment is available, but will be dependant on the type and extent of your disease. Your treatment will be discussed and decided with you, by your oncologist.
Some available treatment includes:
Surgery Radiotherapy, which can be internal and/or external. This willbe explained to you by your oncologist Chemotherapy Hormone therapyConcerned about ovarian cancer?
If you have any concerns about ovarian cancer, please call our free and confidential helpline – 0800 783 3339. Alternatively, you can email one of our cancer information nurses directly on