Ovarian cancer, which is diagnosed in approximately 4,000 women every year in our country, ranks second after uterine cancer among gynecological cancers. Since it progresses insidiously without any symptoms, it is usually detected in the late period. It is among the deadliest cancers because the majority of patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage.
EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF OVARIAN CANCER SAVES LIVES
However, when diagnosed early, successful results of up to 80-90% can be achieved in the treatment. Acıbadem Dr. Şinasi Can (Kadıköy) Hospital Gynecology and Obstetrics, Gynecological Oncology Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Fuat Demirci stated that the earlier the diagnosis of ovarian cancer is made, the more success can be achieved in its treatment, and said, “Regular gynecological check-ups every year are of great importance in the early diagnosis of this cancer. Another important point to be considered for early diagnosis is to consult a doctor without losing time in the symptoms of ovarian cancer. says.
SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN CANCER
The symptoms of ovarian cancer are insidious because it is often confused with the complaints of gastrointestinal diseases such as gastritis, ulcers, indigestion, chronic constipation and colitis. Since patients first apply to internal medicine outpatient clinics, there is a delay in diagnosis and treatment.
Gynecology and Obstetrics, Gynecological Oncology Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Fuat Demirci, drawing attention to the fact that 2 out of every 3 ovarian cancers can be diagnosed in the future, said, “Therefore, for early diagnosis in ovarian cancer, especially in complaints such as menstrual irregularity, abdominal pain, swelling in the abdomen, fullness or pain in the groin, gas and constipation, gynecological diseases and obstetrics You should also consult a specialist. Thanks to the gynecological examination, ultrasound follow-up, detailed history and blood tests from the patient, this type of cancer can be diagnosed early.” says.
DEFINITELY DIAGNOSED DURING OPERATION
Since the ovary is an organ located in the abdomen, the definitive diagnosis of this cancer is; During the surgery, the tissue is taken and this sample is placed in the operating room at the same time by the pathologist. Gynecology and Obstetrics, Gynecological Oncology Specialist Prof. Dr. Fuat Demirci, stating that the operation process continues according to the pathological evaluation, said, “If the disease is limited only to the ovary, if it is a benign tumor or cyst, the operation is terminated. If it is malignant, advanced surgery is started.
Masses are removed from the uterus, ovaries, tubes and, if any, peritoneum and intestinal surfaces, and lymphadenectomy (a surgical method to remove cancerous lymph nodes) is performed. With these procedures, it is aimed to reduce the existing tumor burden to zero. While surgical treatment alone is sufficient in early-stage ovarian cancer, chemotherapy is also needed in advanced stages. Today, with the use of new drugs, chemotherapy has become an effective treatment method.
WHO IS AT RISK OF OVARIAN CANCER?
Although the exact cause of ovarian cancer has not been determined yet, it is stated that the following factors increase the risk:
- Being in menopause or over 50
- see early menstruation
- Going into menopause late
- not have given birth
- Having a family history of ovarian or breast cancer
- Carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
- Presence of chocolate cyst