Ovarian cancer, or more specifically “Ovarian carcinoma”, is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. It develops when abnormal cells in the ovaries grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming tumours that may spread to other parts of the body.
Globally, ovarian cancer is among the leading causes of gynaecological cancer-related deaths. In India, thousands of new cases are diagnosed each year, often at an advanced stage due to subtle early symptoms.
High Risk Groups for Ovarian Carcinoma
Women are more likely to develop ovarian cancer if they have:
- Age above 50 years
- Family history of ovarian, breast, or colon cancer (BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations)
- Early menstruation (before 12) or late menopause (after 55)
- Infertility or not having children
- Use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, or sedentary habits
Types of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer can arise from different cell types within the ovary, and each type has unique characteristics that influence how it behaves and how it is treated. Understanding the specific type of ovarian cancer is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management. The main types include:
- Epithelial tumours – These are the most common form of ovarian cancer, originating from the thin layer of tissue that covers the ovary. They often occur in older women and can vary in aggressiveness.
- Germ cell tumours – These tumours develop from the egg-producing cells of the ovary. They are relatively rare and are more commonly found in younger women, including teenagers and women in their 20s.
- Stromal tumours – Arising from the connective tissue that produces hormones, stromal tumours can affect hormone levels and may cause symptoms related to hormonal changes.
- Subtypes – This category includes variations such as high-grade serous carcinoma, endometrioid carcinoma, and clear cell carcinoma. Each subtype has distinct biological behaviour, prognosis, and implications for treatment planning.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer often goes unnoticed in its early stages. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent abdominal bloating or swelling
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Unexplained fatigue and weight loss
- Menstrual irregularities
Causes of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer develops when normal cells in the ovary undergo changes that cause them to grow uncontrollably, forming a malignant tumour. While the exact cause is often unclear, several genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of developing this disease. Understanding these causes is crucial for early detection and preventive care.
- Genetic mutations – BRCA1, BRCA2, and Lynch syndrome
- Hormonal and reproductive factors – Longer exposure to estrogen may increase risk
- Lifestyle/environmental factors – Smoking, obesity, poor diet
- Idiopathic cases – In some instances, the cause remains unknown.
Diagnosis / Tests for Ovarian Cancer
At Venkateshwar Hospitals, our specialists use advanced tools for accurate diagnosis:
- Physical & Clinical Examination – Checking abdomen and pelvis for abnormalities
- Imaging Tests – Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, PET scan for tumour detection and staging
- Blood Tests – CA-125 and HE4 markers
- Biopsy & Histopathology – Confirming the presence and type of cancer
- Genetic Testing – Identifying inherited mutations for personalised care
Treatment of Ovarian Cancer
Treatment of ovarian cancer involves a combination of medical and surgical approaches, tailored to the stage of the disease, tumour type, and the patient’s overall health. These strategies aim to remove or destroy cancer cells, prevent recurrence, and improve long-term survival, while ensuring the patient’s well-being and quality of life.
1. Surgery
- Hysterectomy (removal of uterus): A hysterectomy involves surgically removing the uterus to prevent cancer spread. It is often performed when ovarian cancer affects nearby reproductive organs, and may be combined with other procedures for comprehensive disease control.
2. Chemotherapy
- Platinum-based chemotherapy drugs: These drugs, like cisplatin or carboplatin, are widely used for ovarian cancer. They damage the DNA of cancer cells, stopping their growth and causing cell death. Platinum-based regimens often form the backbone of treatment and are highly effective.
- Neoadjuvant (before surgery) or adjuvant (after surgery) chemotherapy: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is given before surgery to shrink tumours, making them easier to remove. Adjuvant chemotherapy follows surgery to kill remaining cancer cells, reducing recurrence risk and improving long-term survival outcomes.
At Venkateshwar Hospitals in Delhi, treatment is guided by a multidisciplinary tumour board, ensuring comprehensive and personalised care.
Complications of Ovarian Cancer
- Metastasis (Spread to nearby organs): Ovarian cancer can extend beyond the ovaries to nearby organs such as the bladder, rectum, or liver, making treatment more complex.
- Ascites (Fluid buildup in the abdomen): The disease often causes fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity, leading to bloating, discomfort, and breathing difficulties.
- Bowel Obstruction: Tumour growth or spread may block the intestines, resulting in pain, constipation, and nutritional challenges.
- Recurrence of Cancer: Even after treatment, ovarian cancer has a high chance of returning, often requiring additional therapies.
- Treatment Side Effects: Chemotherapy and other treatments can cause fatigue, nausea, a lowered immune system, and an increased risk of infections.
Prevention of Ovarian Cancer
- Genetic Counselling and Screening: Women at high risk, especially with a family history, should undergo genetic counselling and regular screening to detect risks early.
- Preventive Surgeries: BRCA mutation carriers may consider risk-reducing surgeries, such as prophylactic oophorectomy, to significantly lower ovarian cancer chances.
- Oral Contraceptives: Long-term use of birth control pills has been shown to reduce ovarian cancer risk in some women.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding harmful habits can help improve overall well-being and may lower the risk of cancer.
- Regular Gynaecological Checkups: Routine medical visits enable the early detection of abnormalities, allowing for timely intervention and improved outcomes.
Why Choose Venkateshwar Hospitals for Ovarian Cancer Treatment in Delhi?
- Team of experienced gynecologic oncologists
- Advanced diagnostic tools – PET-CT, molecular testing, laparoscopic and robotic surgery (if applicable)
- Complete care under one roof – surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy
- Personalised treatment plans tailored to patient needs
- Strong focus on supportive care – nutrition, counselling, rehabilitation
- Internationally recognised standards of cancer treatment and patient safety
Prognosis & Life After Treatment
- Early detection offers significantly better survival rates
- Advanced stages require long-term treatment and monitoring.
At Venkateshwar Hospitals, patients benefit from continuous follow-up care and lifestyle guidance for healthy living after treatment
