To know the best possible treatment for ovarian cancer, the doctor needs to identify the stage of the tumor based on whether it has already invaded the other tissues or if the cancer has spread to some parts of the body. Sample of tissue from the pelvis and abdomen are taken to further evaluate the rate of the tumor. Medical tests are CT scan (x-ray machine that takes picture of tissues and organs), Chest X-ray (to see fluid or tumors), Barium enema x-ray (on the lower intestine to see if the areas are blocked by cancer) and Colonoscopy (elongated and lighted tube in the colon and rectum to know if the cancer has spread out on this portion).
Here are the stages of ovarian cancer:
Stage 1 is the lowest level in which cancer cells are found on the inside of one or both ovaries and it is quite difficult to detect because it looks like normal ovarian cells. The first option for treatment is to remove the tumor.
Stage 1a- cancer is inside one ovary Stage 1b- cancer inside both ovaries Stage 1c- in one or both ovaries and the cancer cells in fluid inside abdomen must be taken before or during the surgical procedure
In Stage 2, cancer cells already spread from one or both ovaries affecting other tissues in the pelvis such as fallopian tube and uterus. The surgeon will attempt to lessen the tumor as much as possible. After the surgery, chemotherapy will follow for the procedure and may take up to 6 cycles.
Stage 2a – cancer has developed into the womb or the fallopian tube Stage 2b- cancer has spread into the pelvis ( bladder or rectum) Stage 2c- cancer has full-grown into other tissues in the pelvis
For Stage 3, cancer cells are found outside the abdomen and pelvis (inside the liver or in the lungs). Also found in the lymph nodes, groin or behind the womb. The goal for surgery is to shrink the tumor larger than 1cm and make it disappear. If the cancer has spread to intestines, this organ must be removed as well.
Stage 3a – cancer growths can be found in the lining of the abdomen Stage 3b – noticeable tumor expansion on the lining of the abdomen about 2cm or less in size. Stage 3c – tumor develops larger than 2cm on the lymph nodes in upper abdomen, behind the womb or groin.
The most advanced and detrimental is stage 4 wherein the cancer cells totally spread to distant sites of other body organs including the lungs, liver and other parts outside the peritoneal cavity. This is incurable and the goal of the treatment it to help the patients to live much longer and ease the pain of their ailment.
The accuracy of the laboratory test and staging of tumor may establish whether the ailment is still curable or not. The doctor must explain to the patient the necessary procedure to perform base on the extent of the tumor.
