Ovarian Cancer

Oncology

Overview

Definition

Cancer originating in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum.

Epidemiology

Highest mortality of all gynecologic cancers.

Etiology & Risk Factors

  • BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations
  • Nulliparity
  • Endometriosis

Clinical Symptoms

  • Vague symptoms: Bloating, early satiety, pelvic pain, changes in bowel habits

Clinical Approach

Diagnosis

  • Pelvic ultrasound
  • Elevated CA-125
  • Surgical exploration (definitive)

Management

  • Optimal surgical cytoreduction (debulking)
  • Platinum-based chemotherapy
  • PARP inhibitors (for BRCA+)

Complications

  • Extensive peritoneal carcinomatosis
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Malignant ascites