Ovarian cancer is sometimes called the "silent killer" for the way its symptoms can often fly under physicians' radar until the cancer is already in an advanced stage. That's why early detection, careful evaluation of ovarian masses and an efficient referral system are crucial to ensuring the best possible care for OB/GYN patients with suspected ovarian cancer. Check out this collection of answers to clinicians' most popular questions.
- What is the relative ovarian cancer age risk? The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age. However, even young teenagers can still develop the disease. The symptoms are often unspecific abdominal bloating, urinary or bowel changes, making it easier to miss this cancer. It is important to understand the risks by age and how ultrasound can help you evaluate those risks throughout a patient's life.
- What support do patients need after an ovarian cancer diagnosis? An international study by the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition interviewed women in 44 countries and found that a shocking two-thirds had not even heard of ovarian cancer before receiving their own diagnosis. So, it is important that physicians provide education and support to patients who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Learn more about the unique needs of these patients and how you can point them in the right direction.
- How do ovarian cysts vs. ovarian cancer appear differently on ultrasound? Simple ovarian cysts are common among OB/GYN patients during the reproductive years, when ovarian cancer is less common. Complex ovarian cysts have different features from simple cysts, but only a small percentage are malignant. Malignant masses and benign cysts differ in important ways that are detectable on ultrasound, including their blood flow, surface features and internal composition. Transvaginal 3D ultrasound can help you evaluate ovarian masses and explain the findings to patients.
- What is the link between complex ovarian cysts and ovarian cancer? Complex cysts don't necessarily raise the risk of developing ovarian cancer, but some features of ovarian cysts are more likely to signal a malignant mass. 3D ultrasound can help distinguish between simple and complex cysts and their link to ovarian cancer.
- Can an ultrasound detect ovarian cancer? Ovarian cancer patients often do not present with specific symptoms, which leads to diagnoses at later stages. Transvaginal ultrasound, and especially 3D ultrasound, helps detect adnexal masses and assess symptoms. Evaluation of ovarian features and masses with ultrasound can help produce a definitive diagnosis.
- Can IVF cause ovarian cancer? Some patients may worry that the hormones taken during in vitro fertilization (IVF) can increase the risk of breast, uterine or ovarian cancer. Some research has suggested a higher risk of certain cancers. However, the risk may be linked to factors other than fertility or IVF treatments.
Accurate evaluation and timely diagnosis are the best ways to help patients with ovarian cancer. Newly diagnosed patients need information and guidance on where to go next. Know how to explain their disease and next steps.
