This disease belongs to the category of female oncology. Ovarian cancer in women is much less common than cervical cancer. But the general characteristics of similar diseases are similar. For example, ovarian cancer also does not show symptoms in the first stages, and is poorly detected in normal living conditions, until it reaches a painful, dangerous stage. As a rule, the third stage has tangible sensations. Although this issue is also related to the individual sensitivity of the body.
Knowing the stages of development of the disease is never superfluous. You can prepare mentally and physically, build a line of behavior. In addition, when a woman finds out that she has cancer, she can adequately assess the situation and tune in to certain difficulties, consequences and actions.
This disease is characterized by a variety of morphological structure, since the tumor process here can develop from various ovarian tissues (epithelial, glandular, etc.).
The first stage - the tumor process is limited to the tissue of one or both ovaries. Depending on the extent of the damage, the first stage is divided into three subcategories. The doctor will tell you about them in detail.
The second stage, at which, in addition to damage to the ovaries, damage to the pelvic organs is observed. Most often the uterus, cervix and lower organs are affected. At this stage, uterine cancer and vaginal cervical cancer may develop.
The third stage begins with damage to parametric tissues, peritoneal tissues. Metastases appear in the liver, intestines, both thick and thin sections, bladder, and vagina. All these processes begin to cause sharp pains of a spasmodic, cutting, stabbing nature.
The fourth stage manifests itself in the development of scattered metastases throughout the body. Most often they affect the lungs, spine, and kidneys. The fourth stage makes no difference between ovarian cancer or cancer of other affected tumors. The process takes over the entire body, and serious problems begin.
Features of the development of ovarian cancer at each stage
For each woman, the rate of development of the disease is different. But most often, the first two stages develop for about a year, then the next two can have very different speeds. Most often it depends on the strength of the immune system. Of course, stage 1 is the safest, but diagnosis at this stage is possible only by chance. The more often you are examined by a doctor, the more likely it is that the “case” will preserve your health. Unfortunately, today there are no tools that could accurately help determine the size of the tumor, its location and the stage of ovarian cancer.
Metastases to adjacent organs are considered a feature of later stages of ovarian cancer. The reasons for their development are various. However, there is no clear statement on this topic. It is believed that metastases are a natural development of tumor diseases. But why they appear at different stages in different oncologies, what is specific about the choice of organs on which they develop, and why they affect certain areas and bypass others is not clear. Ovarian cancer metastasizes at the third stage.
Metastases to parametrial tissues are most often one of the first to occur. This harms all organs of the peritoneum. The peritoneum itself is affected by a tumor, which begins to “descend” along it to the pelvic floor, affecting oncoming organs.
The logical development of stage 3 cancer is damage to the omentum and vagina by metastases. This causes severe pain, and it is definitely impossible to ignore the problem at this stage.
Metastases also affect the lymph nodes behind the peritoneum. This process is quite painful; it can become the first sign of illness for a woman who is not yet aware of the threat.
After damage to nearby organs at stage 4 of cancer, metastases can grow in two directions - into the pelvis and into the lungs. This is what happens during the course of the disease. Damage to the lungs causes severe pain, pleurisy, cough, etc.
The liver is extremely rarely affected. If this happens, then a real threat hangs over the body; the liver is too important and an “active” organ.
The prognosis of the disease depends not only on the accuracy of diagnosis, but also on the form of cancer. In addition, the individual reaction of the patient’s body plays a special role. It is extremely difficult to predict the results both before and after surgery. Life prognosis also depends on the skill of the surgeon
Statistics show that survival rate within five years after treatment is about 66% for moderate forms, and only 4% for the last stages of the disease. This difference in prognosis is due to the fact that the last stage of the disease affects a huge number of internal organs, right down to the bone marrow. The outlook is not the brightest. Especially considering the severity of diagnosing the problem.
However, not everything is so hopeless. The fourth stage is not a common option. Most women consult a doctor at an earlier stage, which gives them the opportunity to protect themselves from the worst consequences. In these cases, cancer has a more optimistic prognosis. Let's consider the possibilities depending on the degree of development of the disease.
Treatment prognosis for each stage of cancer
If the problem is detected at the initial – first stage, treatment brings excellent results. Of course, early diagnosis is a rare case. But in this option, it is sometimes possible to preserve the ovaries and the entire reproductive system. With reasonable use of rehabilitation therapy, the disease goes away quite well.
At the second stage, the prognosis is less favorable, so treatment takes on a more aggressive nature. This is almost always an operation. On the other hand, it is the operation that allows you to completely remove the affected organs and eliminate the possibility of cancer along with the source of its development. Recovery is long, but also has positive results.
The third is difficult to treat. Complex treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. With the right approach and a strong heart, all these factors make it possible to cope with this stage. Although the number of consequences, including death, is difficult to predict in the prognosis of ovarian cancer.
The fourth stage also leaves room for struggle. Of course, she does not give room for optimistic forecasts, but in some cases, willpower and self-confidence save the sickest women. It is a rare recklessness to bring your body to this state, but anything can happen in life.
The likelihood of a relapse of the disease is associated with the possibility of remnants of a cancerous tumor, with the possibility of organ damage, and with a host of other external and internal factors affecting the body. To prevent recurrence of ovarian cancer from disturbing the patient, doctors offer radical treatment methods.
This is the main data on what prognosis cancer gives to patients. But the existence of an individual factor often blurs all the lines, and patients have a high chance of losing a lot, while women with an advanced stage of the disease recover in an unknown way. So hope for the best.
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Diagnostic methods usually include ultrasonography, CT or MRI.
In the United States, approximately 15,000 women died from ovarian cancer in 2008. In developed countries, incidence rates are higher.
Most American gynecologists practice removal of the ovaries if a woman after forty undergoes any surgery on the reproductive organs. The reason for this is the risk of developing ovarian cancer. However, it is known that cancer affects only one in eighty women in the United States. This means that thousands of women across the country are having healthy organs removed just to prevent cancer, which actually affects very few. Thousands of women are thus deprived of the normal hormonal balance provided by the ovaries. In fact, early premature spaying is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease, as well as a whole host of menopausal symptoms, including thinning of the skin, which ages the appearance and may cause increased susceptibility to bruises of all kinds.
However, our traditional medicine continues to view oophorectomy in terms of cancer prevention and underestimates the side effects associated with this procedure. This preventive removal is based on two premises: preventive removal of the ovaries during a hysterectomy reduces the chances of getting cancer, and natural hormones can be easily replaced with artificial ones without consequences. But recent research has proven that the first statement is not always true.
If the ovaries themselves are healthy, it is best to leave them intact, provided that there is no clear genetic tendency to develop cancer. This means that the woman has one or two close relatives who have had ovarian cancer. Synthesized hormones cannot replace the complex balance of androgens, progesterone and estrogen that is provided by normally functioning ovaries. Taking into account the behavior of patients on artificial hormones, for example, skipping medications and other unforeseen circumstances that interfere with the proper absorption of drugs, preserving one’s own ovaries leads to a longer life expectancy.
To avoid unnecessary “sacrifices” of healthy organs, we must develop a fundamentally different approach to the problem. The key point here is to understand the wisdom and energy inherent in the ovaries. Ovarian cancer can be caused precisely by negative energy from pent-up anger or resentment, which is “coded” at the level of the second chakra. Moreover, a woman may not be aware of the factors that provoke the accumulation of negative energy, for example, the presence in her life of a man or a boss who is constantly angry or behaves offensively towards her. A woman may have a similar strained relationship with her job, which also has a bad effect on the ovaries. A woman who continues to maintain such relationships is often afraid of being physically, financially or emotionally lonely, abandoned and does not believe in her ability to internally change herself and the situation. She does not find contact with her inner strength, so sometimes in such cases her body itself tries to draw attention to the problem through ovarian disease, especially if she feels resentment, anger or blames others for the current situation. (Remember that the uterus is endowed with more passive energy than the ovaries.)
Often this type of woman, despite the fact that they have real ways to change an unacceptable situation, sincerely believe that other people, against their will, force them to maintain tense relationships with others. They unconsciously continue to adhere to behavioral patterns that we have already discussed, such as the rape archetype. If a woman remains in a hurtful and abusive relationship in which she is constantly emotionally or physically abused, she is, in energy medicine terms, continually being raped. Neither she herself, nor her offending partner or work colleagues take into account her inner self-esteem and creative potential, therefore, the most basic personality traits are subject to violence. Such women are often paralyzed by their own anger - pent-up energy that, if expressed outwardly, could help her change the situation in her favor. The second component of this “paralysis” of the will is the belief that her job, her husband, or any other external source of irritation has power and control over her. Ultimately, no one can confirm or testify to the presence of this kind of emotional trauma, since in most such situations, when a woman feels helpless, the husband, boss or any other external “authority” simply does not feel guilty, and therefore also cannot evaluate the depth of her internal conflict. In order to somehow cope with such a situation, women often blame themselves for everything, thereby “driving” their anger and anger even deeper inside. They are always afraid that if they show their negative emotions, they will simply be left alone. In reality, they have only one way to change the situation in a positive direction for themselves - to listen to the wisdom of their feminine nature and act under its “guidance”.
Ovarian cancer can have a varied histological structure. In at least 80% of cases, cancer occurs in the epithelium; in 75% of these cases it is serous cystadenocarcinoma.
Ovarian cancer is spreading epidemically among people with high economic and social status. Women belonging to the top of society often suffer from the so-called “golden cage” syndrome - the disease often occurs in a situation of complete external well-being: a woman feels unhappy with her husband providing for her “in all respects” or working in a highly paid and prestigious job. In some cases, she even despises her husband or her job, although they provide her with the means and opportunities to vacation at expensive resorts, live in a beautiful house and attend a fashionable country club. Afraid of losing all these benefits, a woman remains in an uncomfortable psychological situation, which, in turn, only makes her suppress negative emotions even more and feel trapped.
There are so many types of ovarian cancer that discussing all the possible options is well beyond the scope of this book. Basically, cancer develops when certain cells in the ovary begin to grow to form an affected area of tissue. Cancer can grow very quickly. Almost every gynecologist I know observed the following picture: three to six months ago, the first examination showed completely healthy ovaries, and the second examination showed a picture of strongly and rapidly growing malignant tissue.
Approximately 5-10% of ovarian cancer cases are associated with mutations in the autosomal dominant BRCA gene, responsible for 50-85% of the lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. Women with BRCA1 mutations have a 20-40% lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer; BRCA2 mutations increase the risk less.
XY gonadal dysgenesis predisposes to germ cell carcinoma.
Traditional medicine does not know the causes of ovarian cancer, however, epidemiologically, cancer is associated with unhealthy diet - consumption of fatty foods and dairy products. These and other factors of the ecological environment in which we live interfere with the normal functioning of all body systems, especially if the energy of the second chakra is already blocked and at the cellular level spurs the development of the disease. Studies have shown that ovarian cancer patients consume 7% more animal fat in the form of butter, whole milk and red meat than a control group of healthy women. In addition, these patients drink more yogurt and eat more soft cheese and ice cream. The higher the socioeconomic status, the richer the food in fats, and therefore the higher the risk of developing the disease.
It is known that cancer most often affects residents of countries where people eat a lot of dairy products (Sweden, Denmark and Switzerland), and the disease is least common in countries with low consumption of dairy products (Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore). Galactose, a sugar formed during the digestion of dairy products, is one of the provocateurs of ovarian cancer. Soft cheese and yogurt seem to be the most active helpers in the production of toxins that accumulate in the ovaries, since in these products milk sugars are converted into galactose, which is quickly absorbed by the body. Our body does not need to do anything here, because it receives this harmful substance in ready-made form. Meanwhile, women who are lactose intolerant and therefore do not eat dairy products are least likely to develop ovarian cancer.
Some studies link the most common subtype of ovarian cancer, called epithelial cancer, to the use of talc, a sanitary powder that is either sprinkled on the genitals or filled in sanitary pads. Through the vagina and cervix, talc can penetrate the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity. Talc and other substances can act as an irritant to the lining of the ovary, and therefore pose a risk of cancer. Experiments proved that particles of coal, which were applied to the genitals, very quickly “moved” into the pelvic cavity through the reproductive organs.
Other factors that provoke ovarian cancer include the following:
Several experiments have quite clearly revealed a significant reduction in the risk of developing ovarian cancer (37% less) after hysterectomy and ligation of the fallopian tubes. The explanation may partly lie in the fact that after these procedures the “corridor” between the external genitalia and the internal region of the pelvic cavity is constantly closed.
All these data suggest that a woman who is concerned about the possibility of ovarian cancer should consider cutting out dairy products, especially yogurt and soft cheese, partially or completely, after age thirty-five, when natural gonadotropin levels rise on their own.
They also lead to the conclusion that not all women after forty are advised to switch to oral contraceptives, since this has its own dangers and side effects.
In the early stages, it is usually asymptomatic; adnexal tumors, often solid, heterogeneous. Most women with advanced cancer have nonspecific symptoms.
Signs of ovarian cancer in women:
Research using visualization tools. If early-stage cancer is suspected, ultrasonography is first performed.
Signs suggestive of cancer:
If advanced cancer is suspected (based on ascites, abdominal enlargement, physical examination of the tuberosity or fixation), CT or MRI is usually performed before surgery.
Tumor markers. Tumor markers, including β-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin, LDH, α-fetoprotein, inhibin, and cancer antigen CA125, are usually measured in younger patients who are at higher risk for non-epithelial tumors (germ cell or stromal tumors). In perimenopausal and postmenopausal patients, only CA 125 is measured, because In women in this age group with ovarian cancer, epithelial tumors predominate.
Biopsy. Routine biopsy is not recommended unless the patient is a candidate for surgery. In these rare cases, a biopsy is obtained by aspiration biopsy (for tumors) or needle biopsy (for ascitic fluid).
If, according to the results of ultrasonography, the formation appears benign, histological examination is not required; Ultrasonography should be repeated after 6 weeks. Such benign lesions include benign cystic teratomas, follicular cysts, and endometriomas.
Staging. If cancer is suspected and the diagnosis is confirmed, staging is performed surgically.
If cancer is suspected at an early stage, staging is performed using laparoscopy. Otherwise, a midline laparotomy is required.
Cancer stages are also classified histologically from 1 to 3 (most aggressive).
Screening. If an Ashkenazi Jewish woman has a family history of one diagnosed case of ovarian cancer before age 50, screening should be recommended.
One of the most difficult problems in diagnosing ovarian cancer is that in the early stages it is asymptomatic. Sometimes patients complain of subtle abdominal pain or digestive disorders. Unfortunately, a number of other health problems can cause similar pain.
Most often, ovarian cancer is detected in the later stages, when it is already considered incurable. We still don't have any surefire way to diagnose this type of cancer in its early stages, let alone any way to prevent it. Hundreds of women today are asking for sonogram scans and blood tests to look for tumor antigens - proteins that “slough off” from the surface of cancer cells. Unfortunately, none of these tests can provide a definitive answer to the question: “Do I have ovarian cancer?” And there is some sad irony in this.
A high Ca-125 level in a practically healthy woman is a serious cause for anxiety and fear, although in itself it is not evidence of cancer. Endometriosis, fibroids, liver disease and other unknown factors can give a similar picture. No one can give a complete guarantee that there is no cancer until a laparoscopic examination of the pelvic cavity is performed, and this is done only under general anesthesia. If this procedure fails to detect the source of the increased presence of Ca-125, the woman will still be left with her fears and guesses about a possible disease.
At the same time, a woman with a normal Ca-125 level is not guaranteed that she does not have ovarian cancer. (Among women who have their ovaries removed, 10% are susceptible to a form of cancer that grows in the peritoneal lining of the pelvic cavity. And although this type of cancer does not originate in ovarian tissue, it looks and behaves exactly the same!) In short, the Ca-125 test is so ineffective that it is not worth the money and effort, and it is pointless to do it to diagnose cancer in the early stages.
Ovarian cancer, which poses a difficult situation for both patients and doctors who treat them, requires a fundamentally different diagnostic method than those that have been used for the last forty years. As one of our specialists in the field of gynecological oncology said at the conference: “All methods seem to work at first, but then none of them are successful. Wake me up when the discussion is over." The connection between the immune system, emotions, nutrition, genetic predisposition and ovarian cancer requires further study in completely new and unconventional ways.
Women whose sister, mother, mother's cousin, mother's aunt, or other immediate maternal relative had ovarian cancer are much more likely to “get” a similar diagnosis than those whose relatives did not have the disease. Some women with a very long history of hereditary disease with this type of cancer (20-30% risk of developing the disease) began to decide on ovariotomy. Prophylactic removal of the ovaries after reaching the end of the childbearing period is often recommended for women with a similar negative family history of cancer. Although even for women whose close relatives have cancer, prophylactic removal of the ovaries is not a guarantee of preventing the disease. Even after this procedure, a cancer almost identical to that which occurs in the ovary can arise in the cells of the pelvic cavity lining.
Women who have seen death from ovarian cancer are more likely to have an oophorectomy due to fear of developing cancer. Although it is not scientific, I would venture the opinion that for the most part, women make life-changing decisions based not on statistics, but on their own emotional reality.
Even if there is a hereditary predisposition to cancer, we must understand that this disease is not purely genetic in origin. After all, certain patterns of emotional reactions are also passed down from generation to generation, so it would be interesting and productive to study precisely those cases in which a woman with poor heredity does not get cancer. Most likely, those who manage to overcome family emotional stereotypes and “break away” from their “clan” both at the energetic and physiological levels manage to avoid getting sick.
Five-year survival rate with treatment:
The prognosis is less favorable with a higher malignancy of the tumor and in cases where it is impossible to remove all clearly affected tissue surgically; the prognosis is most favorable if the diameter of the affected area can be reduced to
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Symptoms
Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor in women that develops from cells of the ovaries (female genital organs).
This oncological pathology is the fifth most common cause of death from cancer in women and the leading among other gynecological malignant tumors. The incidence rate is approximately 70 people per 100,000 population. The average age of patients is about sixty years.
The ovaries are a paired sex gland in women. They are located in the pelvic cavity on both sides of the uterus, to which they are connected by special ligaments. The ovary is shaped like a peach pit, has a dense consistency and is covered with a tunica albuginea, under which the cortical zone is located. The cortical zone contains a large number of follicles (eggs surrounded by a protective cellular layer).
It is not possible to indicate the exact cause of the development of malignant degeneration of the ovary, however, there are a number of risk factors that can, to one degree or another, increase (decrease) the likelihood of this pathology occurring. These include:
Ovarian cancer is classified depending on the stage of the process:
IA - One ovary is affected, maintaining the integrity of its capsule.
IB - Two ovaries are affected with preservation of the integrity of the capsule.
IC - One or two ovaries are affected with the involvement of the organ capsule in the oncological process. Ascites (fluid in the abdomen) with tumor cells appears.
IA - Involvement in malignant growth of the uterus and fallopian tubes;
IB - Involvement of other pelvic organs in malignant growth;
IC - Involvement in malignant growth of the uterus, fallopian tubes and other pelvic organs with capsule invasion and the presence of a tumor on the surface of one or two ovaries. There is ascites with cancer cells.
IA - Ovarian cancer is visualized within the pelvis, but microscopic examination reveals atypical cells in the abdominal cavity;
IB - The appearance of metastatic foci larger than two centimeters in size in the abdominal cavity. The retroperitoneal and inguinal lymph nodes are not involved;
IC - The appearance in the abdominal cavity of metastatic foci exceeding two centimeters in diameter, as well as the involvement of the retroperitoneal and inguinal lymph nodes in the process.
The symptoms of ovarian cancer are usually erased, which explains the late diagnosis and the presence of advanced cases. The most common first sign of ovarian cancer is vague, pulling pain in the lower abdomen. They are very similar to pain due to adnexitis (inflammation of the ovaries). In some cases, a woman consults a doctor with complaints of an enlarged abdomen, which is usually an indicator of advanced disease and is caused by ascites, that is, the presence of free fluid in the abdominal cavity
Ovarian cancer is usually called the “silent killer”, this is due to the fact that it most often manifests itself clinically only when it invades the pelvic organs. About seventy percent of patients turn to medical institutions for help when the cancer has already reached the third or even fourth stage.
First of all, the gynecologist performs a vaginal examination, during which he palpates (feels) the uterine appendages. If a change in the size of an organ is detected or pain unusual for it appears normally, the patient is sent for an ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs. This diagnostic method is one of the most informative non-invasive (without penetration into the skin) studies. It allows not only to visualize the pathological focus, but also to determine its size, consistency and the presence of inclusions.
In order to exclude metastatic foci, all women with detected ovarian cancer must undergo an X-ray examination of the stomach, small and large intestines, as well as the breast.
An important stage of diagnosis is a cytological examination of the contents of the abdominal cavity. The material is collected using a puncture of the posterior vaginal fornix with a thin long needle, after which specialists study the cellular composition of the resulting fluid under a microscope.
To visually study the condition of the pelvic and abdominal organs, diagnostic laparoscopy is indicated. This study is performed under general anesthesia. In this case, a backlit camera and a number of instruments are inserted into the patient’s abdominal cavity, with the help of which an image is displayed on a special screen. Depending on the results obtained, the issue of stopping the procedure or further surgical treatment is decided.
The newest diagnostic methods include the enzyme immunoassay method. It consists of detecting a special marker of an ovarian tumor (CA 125) in a woman’s blood.
To determine the extent of the tumor process, computed tomography (CT) is used. This test involves taking a series of x-rays that create a layer-by-layer image of the area being studied. Subsequently, a computer program analyzes the information and transforms it into a visual picture.
However, despite the huge variety of diagnostic techniques, the most reliable test is a biopsy of ovarian tissue. It allows you to obtain all the necessary information about the tumor process, and, therefore, determine the tactics of further treatment.
In the absence of contraindications, all patients with an ovarian tumor are subject to surgical treatment. At the first stage of the process in reproductive age, it is possible to perform organ-preserving operations, the essence of which is to remove the uterine appendages on the affected side and resection (cutting out) of the opposite ovary. In the case of a more widespread process, complete removal of the uterus and appendages is necessary.
This type of treatment is indicated in cases of confirmed stage IB - IV ovarian cancer, or tumor relapses. It is based on the increased sensitivity of tumor cells, characterized by active growth and division, to certain chemicals.
Contraindications for chemotherapy for ovarian cancer are:
Radiation treatment is used in patients who have responded poorly to chemotherapy. The method can also be useful for palliative treatment in incurable (incurable) patients. To carry out radiation therapy, irradiation techniques are used both for the entire abdomen and for a specific area. Complications of this treatment method include:
The effectiveness of radiation treatment is assessed after a month.
This method of exposure is based on stimulating the body’s own defenses aimed at fighting tumor cells. It is indicated for the development of ascites, pleurisy (inflammation of the pleura - the pulmonary membrane), for relapses of gonadal cancer or in case of its progression, after radiation or chemotherapy.
This type of therapy is indicated in case of ineffectiveness of all other methods and is aimed mainly at improving the patient’s quality of life and is based primarily on adequate pain relief.
Metastasis of ovarian cancer
Prevention of ovarian cancer is based mainly on regular, at least once a year, visits to the gynecologist. In view of the proven effectiveness of taking combined oral contraceptives in reducing the likelihood of cancer of the female genital organs, the use of this group of drugs is recommended when indicated.
In addition, it is necessary to promptly treat all diseases of the genital area, especially chronic adnexitis. Eat foods rich in vitamins and microelements with a low percentage of animal fats.
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Serous ovarian cancer
Serous ovarian cancer is a large cluster of malignant neoplasms that develop from the epithelium. That is, the tumor appears from those epithelial tissues that have become malignant or degenerated. To date, the reason for this process has not yet been found. There are, however, three theories that have been put forward by oncologists:
Today, there are several types of serous ovarian cancer:
Different types of serous cancer are treated with different medications.
Epithelial ovarian cancer is formed from mesothelium - the epithelium that is located on the surface of this female organ. Typically, this type affects only one ovary and rarely spreads to the opposite one. The tumor in this case progresses so slowly that it is very difficult to diagnose. According to statistics, 75% of patients learned about their disease at a late stage, when treatment is quite difficult.
Epithelial ovarian cancer develops in women after 50 years of age. It is the most common (99% of cases).
Mucinous ovarian cancer is diagnosed more often in those who have had or are suffering from uterine fibroids, have had an ectopic pregnancy or inflammation of the appendages. Typically, with the development of such a tumor, no changes in the menstrual cycle are noticed (97%). Among the main symptoms are:
Depending on the stage of the disease, symptoms may appear or disappear, or intensify.
This form of ovarian cancer is formed from tumors in other organs that are located nearby. Typically, carcinogenic cells travel through the blood into one or two ovaries from the abdominal cavity or uterus. All formations of this type are designated as 4th degree. There are ways through which cancer enters the ovaries:
Metastatic ovarian cancer accounts for 20% of all cancer cases in this area. It usually affects women between forty and fifty years of age. The tumor can be quite large. If both ovaries are affected, the left one is always more severely affected. The tumor has an oval shape and a lobular structure. Usually stands on a leg. Its consistency is quite soft.
This type of cancer is quite rare. Usually the tumor is combined with endometriosis. Doctors do not know exactly what causes clear cell ovarian cancer, but they assume that it develops from Müllerian epithelium. Typically, this form of cancer affects only one ovary. The tumor resembles a cyst in appearance. It can metastasize quite quickly, so the prognosis for cancer treatment is bleak. Clear cell testicular cancer often develops together with adenofibroma.
Glandular ovarian cancer is a fairly common form of malignant tumor that develops in this female organ. According to statistics, among all pathologies of these types, this cancer is diagnosed in 40% of cases. The size of the tumor is quite large, sometimes even huge. Cancer can quickly spread to other organs.
Another name for glandular cancer is ovarian adenocarcinoma. The development of a tumor occurs due to the fact that various epithelial tissues begin to grow. Why this happens is not yet known. But doctors note that women who are obese, use oral contraceptives or have infertility are more likely to be at risk. The early stages of glandular ovarian cancer occur without any distinctive symptoms, so it is important to undergo an ultrasound of the pelvic organs at least once a day. Some patients experience a change in the menstrual cycle, which becomes quite irregular. The disease usually develops in women after menopause or just before its onset.
Papillary ovarian cancer differs from other types in that the tumor develops from a cilioepithelial cystoma, which is also called papillary. Typically, papillary cancer develops on both sides, but there are also unilateral tumors. This type of malignancy is very difficult to diagnose. As a rule, it develops in older women.
Secondary ovarian cancer is one of the most common types. It accounts for 85% of all cancer cases in this organ. The main characteristic is the fact that the tumor grows from benign formations. As a rule, these are mucinous cystomas or serous papillaries. Typically, secondary ovarian cancer may be isolated, but may consist of several nodes.
Undifferentiated ovarian cancer is one of the least common. In only 1% of cases the doctor makes such a diagnosis. This type of carcinoma has no specific symptoms and is therefore difficult to diagnose.
Borderline ovarian cancer is an epithelial tumor that rarely develops into malignancy. When an ultrasound examination is performed, such cancer is difficult to distinguish from an invasive type of tumor. To see the difference between these types of cancer, a biopsy is needed. Treatment of borderline ovarian cancer is carried out only by surgery. If a woman has already given birth, she may have her uterus removed or have a tubal ligation. The danger of this type of tumor is that it often spreads to the tissues of other organs.
The mortality rate from papillary ovarian cancer is quite high, so this disease is considered very serious. The main difference is the fact that the tumor has a distinctive structure. Inside there is a special capsule that consists of papillae and liquid. Papillaries also have small growths that are covered with columnar or cuboidal epithelium. Very often, papillary ovarian cancer is confused with other types.
Squamous cell ovarian cancer develops from cysts, especially from dermoid cysts. First of all, it must be said that dermoid cysts are always benign, but under the influence of reasons that have not yet been established, they degenerate into malignant formations. Development usually occurs in a small number of women (1-2%) after menopause. Squamous cell ovarian cancer is diagnosed late and quite difficult. Often women come to the doctor when they experience unpleasant “squeezing” in the lower abdomen. To cure this type of tumor, radical surgery is used. If the cancer has affected only the ovaries, the prognosis is often quite good.
Anaplastic ovarian cancer is quite rare. It is diagnosed only in 2-3% of cases. It differs in the histological structure of the tumor. Moreover, it can be either large-celled or small-celled.
The question of whether ovarian cancer is operable is quite complex. The answer can only be obtained after the abdominal cavity has been cut. In this case, it does not matter how much the tumor has grown, nor how much ascites it has, nor whether it is mobile or not. There are cases where a mobile tumor of ovarian cancer was completely removed, but one that seemed motionless during examination could not be operated on due to the fact that it was connected to the intestine or another neighboring organ. In medical practice, unfortunately, it is the second type that comes across more often. Inoperable ovarian cancer cannot be removed with surgery. But do not despair, because there are various treatment methods that have helped some patients. For example, fungotherapy (mushroom treatment) has recently become popular, although it is more palliative in nature.
It often happens that ovarian cancer begins to develop after childbirth. In this case, the woman must remember that feeding the baby with breast milk is strictly prohibited. In the first stages, it is very difficult to diagnose cancer, since its symptoms are very similar to the development of benign tumors. Please note that there is no disruption in the menstrual cycle. The first signs of a subjective nature appear after the tumor has significantly increased in size. Among them are:
Ovarian cancer often develops after childbirth due to excessive production of hormones.
Diagnosis of this type of tumor occurs infrequently, only in extremely rare cases. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by an oncologist, who must carry out the following manipulations:
The most advanced method for identifying cancer cells today is a biopsy.
Ovarian cancer after childbirth undergoes complex treatment, which includes surgery, chemotherapy and ionizing radiation.
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2018 Blog about women's health.
Ovarian cancer occupies a leading place among malignant tumors in women. The disease can occur even at a young age and is diagnosed in girls. Most often, pathology occurs in the preclimatic and climatic periods.
Ovarian cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, and it most often occurs during premenopausal and climatic conditions
In medicine, there are 4 stages of ovarian cancer:
Ovarian cancer has 4 stages, but already in the second stage metastases actively appear, which actively move to the pelvic organs, intestines and fallopian tubes Ovarian cancer in women occurs due to primary or secondary metastatic factors. The primary form of pathology develops as a result of the formation of malignant cells, the secondary form - due to the degeneration of benign tumors into cancerous ones.
You should know! According to the international classification ICD-10, the disease in question is classified as a malignant neoplasm and is designated by code C56.
Malignant ovarian tumors can be:
Each of these tumors occurs in ovarian cancer; using photos on Internet resources, you can examine in more detail the external characteristics of the formations.
The disease is diagnosed in the later stages of development - at the third or fourth stage. This causes high mortality among women. The first symptoms of the problem are similar to other pathologies and do not differ in specificity.
You should know! Malignant neoplasms are not capable of producing hormones, so the disease does not cause disruption of the menstrual cycle.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
Pain with ovarian cancer is the first sign of a problem in the body. Discomfort is felt in the lower abdomen and back. Pain with ovarian cancer is similar in symptoms and signs to chronic cancer.
With ovarian cancer, you always feel an unpleasant pain just below the abdomen and in the back, and the more advanced the cancer, the more serious the problems arise (swelling of the limbs, problems with urination, etc.). As the tumor grows, it affects neighboring organs and tissues, which is manifested by problems with stool and frequent urge to urinate. When the pelvic organs are compressed, the veins become pinched, which ultimately leads to swelling of the lower extremities and.
In ovarian cancer, it is one of the most characteristic signs of pathology. The severity does not depend on the stage of the disease. The sign can be observed in benign tumors and in the initial stages of oncology development. The patient can independently determine the excess fluid in the abdominal cavity by the disproportionate increase in the abdominal area. When the pathological process moves to the chest area, signs of ovarian cancer are supplemented by shortness of breath and pleural effusion.
With ovarian cancer, ascites (active accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity) is also possible, which can lead to discomfort and shortness of breath. In the later stages of development, ovarian cancer symptoms resemble poisoning of the body. The disease occurs with symptoms:
You should know! In rare cases, malignant cells produce their own hormones in ovarian cancer; symptoms in women in this case may be supplemented by: facial and body hair growth, cessation of the menstrual cycle, and premature puberty.
Diagnosis of the disease includes the following activities:
You should know! Sometimes follicular cysts form on a woman’s reproductive organ, which are visually similar to tumor formations. Cysts usually go away on their own without treatment.
You should know! CA-125, a tumor marker for ovarian cancer, significantly exceeds normal values during the disease. This condition also occurs during exacerbation, so it is impossible to use the method of identifying cancer markers as the main one.
The leading role in the treatment of ovarian cancer in women is given to surgery. The second most effective method of treating the disease is chemotherapy. For successful recovery, techniques are often combined.
Chemotherapy is carried out for all patients who have had their ovaries removed for cancer. This method of treatment allows you to achieve the following results:
Radiosurgery is a commonly prescribed operation for ovarian cancer. The method is used not only for the disease in question, but also for cervical cancer and other malignant pathologies. The procedure uses a gamma knife. The installation generates low-power radioactive rays, which allows the preservation of healthy tissue. When the beam of rays is focused in the area of cancer, the cancer cells disintegrate. The main condition for a successful operation is high precision, so that with the chosen focusing the rays converge in the area where the tumor is located. On Internet forums there are many positive reviews about the effectiveness of radiosurgical treatment in the fight against ovarian cancer. The main disadvantage of the technique is the inability to eliminate tumors of significant size.
Hormone-containing drugs can be prescribed as a comprehensive treatment for pathology. On forums, women write about the low effectiveness of this method of therapy. In order to suppress the growth of cancer cells, the following remedies are prescribed to women:
At stage 1 ovarian cancer, the prognosis is the most favorable, since at this stage the abnormal cells do not spread beyond the organ. The five-year survival rate for the disease is about 92%.
It is also necessary to predict survival taking into account the type of tumor. Many women (8 out of 10 cases) are diagnosed with an epithelial type of formation or carcinoma. With this type of tumor, the prognosis for survival after surgery ranges from 60-80%. With stromal neoplasia, the probability of successful treatment increases to 95%; with germ cell ovarian cancer, the rate increases to 96-98%.
Stage 2 disease – ovarian cancer with metastases. For this reason, the survival prognosis is much worse than at stage 1. According to average statistics, the number of patients surviving after surgery for 5 years is 55-70%. How long a woman can live after surgery depends on the effectiveness of the drugs used and the completeness of the removal of cancer cells.
The prognosis in the last stages of the disease is unfavorable because cancer cells spread to the peritoneum and regional lymph nodes. Life expectancy on average is 57%, with stage 3 ovarian cancer. How long people live with the disease also depends on the type of tumor:
Important! Stage 3 ovarian cancer with ascites has a poor prognosis, since abnormal cells attack not only the genitals, but the entire body. The probability of a favorable outcome for 3-5 years is reduced to 10%.
The worst prognosis for survival is observed with stage 4 ovarian cancer; how long patients with this disease live largely depends on the chosen treatment tactics. According to average statistical data, the five-year survival rate for this pathology does not exceed 5%, since cancer relapse is often observed after a course of therapy.
Ovarian cancer is a dangerous and difficult to diagnose disease. The first signs of pathology may not appear or may resemble other problems, for example, chronic inflammation of the ovaries. Whether the tumor can be completely removed depends on the stage of the oncological process and the treatment methods used. After tumor removal in the final stages, the survival prognosis decreases due to metastasis of cancer cells to other organs and tissues.
Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor that begins to develop from the epithelium of this female organ. According to statistics, in 5% of cases, cancer patients die precisely because of the development of this formation. The peak of the disease is considered to be old age. Typically, a large number of patients have already reached 70 years of age. As a rule, cancer develops from benign formations that can grow in this part of the body. More often, ovarian cancer develops in women who have undergone ovulation stimulation, had abortions, or are suffering from infertility.
A malignant tumor in the right ovary is called cancer. Usually the tumor affects only the right side of this female organ. Often, cancer of the right ovary is formed from epithelial tissue. Often the cause is cysts (benign tumors). Patients with cancer of the right ovary notice a slight nagging pain on the right side of the lower abdomen.
Typically, the tumor grows from a cyst (a benign growth filled with fluid or mucus). It can also develop from epithelial cells. It affects only the left ovary, which is why it got its name. Usually, patients quickly feel full and may experience mild nagging pain on the left side of the lower abdomen.
Remission of ovarian cancer is a long period of time when the disease did not develop, remaining at the same level. Recently, German doctors have noted that patients who took the drug Pazopanib, even in the last stages of the disease, were able to extend remission to six months. The approval of such a drug would be a huge step forward, as patients would be able to go much longer between chemotherapy treatments. According to statistics, in advanced stages, ovarian cancer is considered a complex disease that often leads to death. The survival rate here is only 20-25%.
It is worth understanding that surgical operations do not leave their mark on the human body. If you have had your ovaries or another organ, such as your uterus, removed to fight cancer, you should be prepared for changes to occur in your body.
Firstly, if at least one ovary is removed, this sharply reduces the amount of hormones produced. When both organs are removed, the hormonal levels change very seriously. You can at least somehow stabilize your condition with the help of special courses. But remember that after the operation the patient will be forced to constantly artificially maintain hormonal levels. If this is not done, the disease may return again.
Secondly, sometimes during the operation the doctor also removes the uterus. This leads to the formation of a void. It, of course, affects the general condition negatively. After such an operation, it is prohibited to lift any weights, play sports or have an active sex life.
Do not forget to constantly undergo examinations, which will allow you to detect a relapse of the disease in time.
For ovarian cancer, the following types of work are contraindicated:
With effective treatment of stage 1 and 2 ovarian cancer, patients are given moderate restrictions on their ability to live. Therefore, the patient can return to work without any problems if it is not on the list of contraindications. At stages 1, 2, 3, if treatment of the tumor is impossible, a pronounced limitation of life activity is imposed (second disability group). The first disability group is assigned to those patients who have been diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor in the ovaries. This type of pathology is second only to cervical cancer in prevalence.
The ovaries are paired sex glands that play a vital role in the activity of the entire reproductive system. They are responsible for the production of steroid hormones (estrogen, androgen, progestin) and perform an endocrine function. They also develop and mature eggs.
Pathology often occurs in a latent form until other organs are involved in the process, so detection of the disease at stage 1 or 2 occurs only in 30% of cases. Tumors of the gonads are divided into:
A special risk group includes women aged 55 to 70 years. Oncology in young patients usually indicates a hereditary factor.
Important! Taking oral contraceptives reduces the likelihood of developing a tumor by at least 2 times.
In addition to genetic predisposition, another key provoking factor is hormonal imbalance. Numerous studies have found that nulliparous and infertile women get sick much more often than those who have children. This phenomenon is due to the non-stop ovulatory cycle without interruption during pregnancy. Constant hormonal stimulation leads to thinning, tissue damage and the creation of suitable conditions for tumor formation.
The main causes of ovarian cancer are:
One of the most common causes of cancer is excess body weight. The survival rate among such patients is significantly lower than among women with normal weight. An unhealthy diet with excessive consumption of animal fats, alcohol and tobacco addiction increase the likelihood of developing cancer. Radiation exposure has a similar effect.
Ovarian cancer can occur against the background of a breast tumor. Hypertension, atherosclerosis, and diabetes mellitus are also risk factors, since all these diseases cause an increase in androgen levels and hormonal imbalance.
There is no universal treatment strategy for all types of cancer, so therapy is selected based on the characteristics of its form and type. Based on the nature of their occurrence, the following types are distinguished:
Important! Oncological lesions of the genital organs, gastrointestinal tract, mammary gland and lymphoid tissue most often become the cause of the metastatic form.
The gonads are formed from three main types of tissue: epithelial cells cover the ovaries, stromal cells are responsible for the production of progestin and estrogen, and germinal cells produce eggs. Depending on which of them have degenerated into atypical ones, cancer is classified into: epithelial, stromal, germinal.
Determining the stage of ovarian cancer is a primary task for making an accurate diagnosis and choosing a treatment method:
At the initial stage, the tumor process is localized in one or two ovaries and does not spread beyond them. The ovarian capsule remains intact. As the tumor grows, the capsule ruptures, and fluid containing cancer cells collects in the abdominal cavity. The prognosis for stage 1 is the most favorable. Survival rate over 5 years is up to 95%. With properly selected therapy, there is a chance to achieve complete recovery or stable remission.
Cancer cells move to neighboring organs. The malignant process affects the uterus, then spreads to the pelvic area. More than half of patients with this diagnosis are successfully treated and, if certain preventive measures are taken, live quite a long time.
A typical symptom of stage 3 ovarian cancer is ascites, an accumulation of free fluid in the abdominal cavity. In advanced conditions, its volume can reach 25 liters. With such a clinical picture, only about 25% of patients survive for 5 years. If there is no effusion, but the tumor grows rapidly and spreads to the peritoneal abdominal surfaces with the first signs of metastasis, doctors also state stage 3 cancer.
The last and most severe form. Cancer cells penetrate into all nearby and distant organs, tissues, and lymph nodes. There is a high probability of damage to the lungs and liver. The prognosis in this case is extremely unfavorable. With active fluid accumulation in the peritoneum, no more than 2% survive the next 5 years. Even if there is no fluid, only 10% of patients experience remission.
The clinical picture of cancer is similar to the manifestations of other diseases. Late diagnosis of malignant tumors is partly due to the fact that, due to the modern rhythm of life, women often prefer self-medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should contact a medical facility as soon as possible:
Symptoms of ovarian cancer become more pronounced as the tumor grows and pathological cells spread to other organs. Due to hormonal imbalance, bleeding sometimes occurs during menopause. If a woman has not yet entered menopause, cancer can cause spotting mid-cycle. Late stages are characterized by signs of cardiovascular and respiratory failure, anemia, and extreme exhaustion of the body. If the tumor is of cystic origin, its suppuration and rupture are possible. Then the contents enter the peritoneal cavity and provoke peritonitis.
Important! Due to severe exhaustion caused by intestinal dysfunction, death can occur.
If oncology is suspected, it is necessary to perform a differential diagnosis with such pathologies as: uterine fibroids, endometriosis, diverticulitis, cyst, ectopic pregnancy, benign tumor. First of all, a general and gynecological examination is carried out. In the later stages of the disease, a fixed round-shaped formation is detected in the area of the appendages, pleural effusion, abdominal enlargement, and shortness of breath. In the early stages, symptoms are mild or absent altogether.
Additional diagnostic methods include:
If other organs are affected by cancer cells, the following are prescribed at the doctor’s discretion: colonoscopy, fibrogastroduodenoscopy, cystoscopy, kidney and liver blood tests. During treatment, the patient must regularly donate blood to determine the level of lactate dehydrogenase, human chorionic gonadotropin, alpha-fetoprotein, and tumor marker - antigen CA-125. Before the start of therapy, their meaning is not very informative.
There are 2 effective ways to treat ovarian cancer: surgery and chemotherapy. In the absence of damage to the peritoneum and other organs, resection of the uterus, appendages and omentum is performed. This is a radical but justified method that reduces the risk of relapse to a minimum. If only one ovary is affected and it is necessary to preserve reproductive function, part of the gonad is removed with the obligatory collection of biopsy material from the second organ.
Removal of a large part of the formation with all metastatic foci is mandatory in severe forms. The more atypical cells are eliminated, the higher the chances of improving quality and increasing life expectancy.
Important! At stage 4, surgery is rarely performed, since treatment in this case will be ineffective. Antitumor drugs are prescribed to reduce the severity of symptoms.
Chemotherapy involves systemic use:
These funds are administered within one day. Re-use of medications is carried out no earlier than after 3 weeks. To achieve the desired result, you need to complete 6 courses. More than half of patients live 12-18 months without relapse after treatment. The drugs have a lot of side effects. The dosage is calculated taking into account the severity of the disease, age and general condition of the woman.
Achieving a full recovery when the diagnosis is confirmed is only possible at stage 1 of the disease. After successful treatment at stage 2, it is possible to achieve stable remission, but in other cases the prognosis is considered unfavorable. With stage 4 ovarian cancer, life expectancy ranges from several months to 5 years (this depends on the general clinical picture and characteristics of the body).
Cancer prevention is not specific:
A balanced diet, limited consumption of animal fats and the fight against bad habits will help prevent the development of many diseases. An active lifestyle, preventive examinations and timely response to the appearance of alarming symptoms are the key to good health and longevity.
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