Ovarian Cancer Screening Methods

Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
Updated on September 10, 2024
00:00
00:00

The methods for diagnosing ovarian cancer include imaging studies, such as ultrasonography of the adnexa of the uterus, abdominal CT, or MRI, which can detect ovarian tumors. The next step is to perform a blood test for the tumor marker CA125, which is a relatively specific and sensitive marker for epithelial ovarian cancer; in clinical practice, CA125 levels are generally significantly elevated in patients with ovarian cancer. Additionally, many patients with ovarian cancer, especially those in advanced stages, often develop significant ascites. We can perform abdominal paracentesis to drain the fluid and test the ascites for cancer cells. If cancer cells are found in the ascites and imaging studies reveal an ovarian mass, ovarian cancer can be diagnosed. Furthermore, chest CT and other tests are included to comprehensively assess the staging of the patient.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
44sec home-news-image

How is ovarian cancer screened?

The most commonly used screening method for ovarian cancer is the B-ultrasound examination of the adnexa uteri. The B-ultrasound can detect ovarian masses and tumors, and when these are found, the possibility of ovarian cancer should be considered, necessitating further examinations for confirmation. Another method involves the tumor marker CA125, which is relatively sensitive and specific for epithelial ovarian cancer. Therefore, for ovarian cancer screening, we can perform a blood test for CA125 in conjunction with a B-ultrasound of the adnexa uteri.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
40sec home-news-image

Ovarian Cancer Dietary Precautions

The occurrence of ovarian cancer is not greatly related to dietary habits, so there are no special dietary restrictions or forbidden foods for patients with ovarian cancer. In Western medicine, unlike Traditional Chinese Medicine, which mentions certain "stimulating foods," there are no such prohibitions. Therefore, the diet for patients with ovarian cancer is the same as for anyone else, only requiring a balanced, comprehensive nutrition, and a combination of meat and vegetables. There are no special dietary considerations needed.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
1min home-news-image

Ovarian cancer pain symptoms

In the early stages of ovarian cancer, the symptoms can be quite hidden, and the patient may not feel any discomfort at all. However, as the tumor grows and ascites develops, the patient typically may experience abdominal bloating, or a palpable mass may be felt in the pelvic or lower abdominal area. At this point, symptoms such as pain in the lower abdomen may occur, especially when there is a substantial amount of ascites, leading to clinical symptoms like abdominal bloating and pain. In even more advanced stages of ovarian cancer, the tumor may invade surrounding pelvic organs, potentially causing partial intestinal obstruction or symptoms of pelvic compression. With conditions like intestinal obstruction, there will be significant abdominal pain, possibly accompanied by vomiting, especially after eating, which can exacerbate the symptoms.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Wu Xia
Oncology
53sec home-news-image

What to eat for difficulty in defecation due to ovarian cancer?

If the difficulty in defecation is due to ovarian cancer involving the rectum or other parts, we can apply anti-tumor treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy to control the condition and facilitate defecation. If the issue is caused by painkillers or the patient's inherent constipation, diet is crucial. The diet must include an adequate amount of fiber, more vegetables, and fruits. Avoid overly refined staple foods and include more whole grains. Drinking a glass of saltwater or honey water on an empty stomach in the morning, combined with appropriate waist and abdominal massage, can enhance the effect of facilitating bowel movements. If these measures are still ineffective, laxatives such as sodium docupate or lactulose may be used, along with some traditional Chinese medicines.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Liang
Oncology
1min home-news-image

Symptoms of ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer patients, especially those in the early stages, typically have inconspicuous symptoms, possibly without any noticeable discomfort. The disease is often discovered during gynecological examinations through the detection of abdominal masses. In advanced-stage patients, as the abdominal mass progressively enlarges, symptoms may include abdominal pain, lower abdominal bloating, and pelvic pressure symptoms due to compression of nearby organs. There may be partial intestinal obstruction, presenting as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and inability to pass stool or gas. Another symptom is ascites, characterized by progressive enlargement and bloating of the abdomen. Ascites is a common clinical manifestation in ovarian cancer patients, and a significant portion of patients are diagnosed with ovarian cancer after presenting with ascites as the initial symptom.