Ovarian cancer involves abnormal cell growth that
begins in the ovaries. Most ovarian cancers are
epithelial, originating in the lining tissues of the
ovary.
Causes
The cause of ovarian cancer is unknown. The risk
of ovarian cancer increases with age. Women over the
age of 60 have the highest incidence. Women who have
never given birth are twice as likely to develop
ovarian cancer as those who have.
Symptoms
Ovarian cancer often shows no symptoms until the
later stages. Most commonly, women notice an
enlarged abdomen. Other symptoms may include:
- Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort
- Gas, nausea, and indigestion
- Ffequency or urgency in urination
- Changes in bowel habits
- Weight loss
- Swelling of the pelvis or abdomen
- Painful intercourse
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Excessive fatigue
Treatment
Treatment is altered according to the stage of
the disease and consists of varying combinations of
surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Drugs useful
in treating ovarian cancer include chlorambucil,
melphalan, cyclophosphamide, cisplatin and
paclitaxel.
