Ovarian cancer is a condition in which there is an uncontrolled growth and multiplication of cells in the ovary. Ovaries are the primary reproductive glands in females that produce eggs. They also produce hormones that control the menstrual cycle and pregnancy..
Most of the symptoms are recognizable at Stage III or IV and include abnormal vaginal discharge, pain or pressure in the pelvic area, abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation.
The common risk factors include advancing age, family history, and breast cancer susceptibility gene (BRCA) mutations. The incidence of ovarian cancer has been increasing substantially among younger females, due to increasing prevalence of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and not having children either by wish or infertility.
The treatment and prognosis of ovarian cancer depends on the location, size, stage, and extent of cancer spread, as well as the overall health of the patient. Debulking surgery that comprises removal of ovaries, fallopian tubes or uterus depending upon the stage is the mainstay treatment. Along with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy immunotherapy and/or their combinations are given.
The outlook of ovarian cancer is not very positive due to late appearance of symptoms and absence of specific screening factors.
