What is Ovarian Cancer?
The ovaries are two almond-shaped glands that are situated on each side of the uterus just below the fallopian tube. They are about 3 cm in length and 2 cm in width. As well as producing ova, they are responsible for producing oestrogen and progesterone. Cancer of the ovaries is mostly seen in women after the age of 50, but may appear earlier.
Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer
Vaginal bleeding between menstrual cycles and post menopause
Pain in the lower back
Unexplained diarrhoea
Ascites (excess fluid in the abdominal cavity) Causes Of Ovarian Cancer
A malignant tumour appears in the ovaries. It is very difficult to detect and often shows no symptoms in the early stages, with the causes unclear. Those with a family history of cancer of ovary, breast or colon have a higher risk factor of developing the disease.
Treatment Of Ovarian Cancer
If the tumour is detected at an early stage and is small enough, then it may be possible just to remove it. This is especially so if the patient is young and wants to have children.
Generally, treatment consists of removal of both ovaries and the uterus. Follow-up treatment is required after surgery to ensure that the cancer does not return. This involves either chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The extent of the type of treatment, is determined by how much of the cancer remains after surgery, and how it responds to follow up treatment.
Dr. A. Bose © Allcures.com September 2011