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Diagnosis of ovarian cancer
Last reviewed: 19.11.2021
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Early signs of a tumor in the ovaries can be seen only after a blood test for the allocation of a special marker CA 125. But here one can not be sure for one hundred percent, since not all types of cancer of this organ produce this type of protein. The focus of infection can be seen (but not always successful) after transvaginal ultrasound, laparoscopy or tomography. Despite this, early diagnosis of ovarian cancer is very important, since 95% of women whose cancer was seen in the first stage managed to defeat the disease in five years.
Analyzes
Of course, various tests conducted in medical laboratories help to diagnose ovarian cancer, but you should not rely solely on their results. Of particular importance is a blood test, which helps to see the first signs of even an asymptomatic course of the disease. As soon as the blood test data are available, the doctor can determine what other diagnostic methods may be needed. Usually, if there is a suspicion of ovarian cancer, a general and biochemical blood test is performed. Also, oncomarkers and coagulability are examined. As a rule, the following oncomarkers are used: CA 125 and NOT 4.
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Oncomarker of ovarian cancer
The most common tumor cancer markers are CA 125 and NOT 4. Moreover, if the concentration of the first in the body reaches 35 units per ml of blood, and the second - 140 pmol per ml of blood, this is an indication that a malignant tumor develops in the ovaries. It is also worth considering the type of cancer. At some of them, the concentration of both or only one of the tumor markers may increase. It is believed that the diagnosis of ovarian cancer through oncomarkers is possible in 80% of cases. Moreover, they allow us to identify the disease in the first stages, when it is still possible to conduct the most effective treatment.
In the body of a woman after forty years on the background of the development of ovarian cancer, the concentration of alfa-fetoprotein and chorionic gonadotropin can also increase. Therefore, it is recommended that all female individuals at this age from time to time undergo tests for these cancer markers. Also, such tests help control remission after the tumor has already been removed.
General blood analysis
Due to the general analysis of blood in ovarian cancer, the doctor sees that the leukocyte formula has shifted to the left. In this case, the number of white blood cells can be normal. Also, even at an early stage of the tumor, the level of ESR increases. A general blood test helps to diagnose ovarian cancer and offer the right treatment.
CA 125 for ovarian cancer
CA 125 is one of the main oncomarkers, which are manifested in ovarian cancer. It should be understood that CA 125 should be present in the epithelial tissue of the uterus, especially its mucinous fluid. In the ordinary state, it can not be found in the bloodstream, unless, of course, there were tissue ruptures. During menstruation, the CA 125 level sometimes doubles. Also, the increase occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy. CA 125 helps to diagnose ovarian cancer in 80% of cases.
HCG
HCG or human chorionic gonadotropin is a marker that also plays a very important role in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Usually, his level rises if the patient is more likely to have ovarian cancer or has an embryonic tumor. Note that hCG also increases in pregnant women, after consuming marijuana, if a person is ill with cirrhosis or inflammation of the intestine.
Instrumental diagnostics
Among the main instrumental methods for diagnosing ovarian cancer, there are ultrasound, which helps to quickly see the tumor in this organ. In addition, ultrasound makes it possible to determine how far the metastases of cancer have spread. Also, to see how widespread the process, sometimes use radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound examination of patients who suffer from ovarian cancer, helps the doctor find answers to very important questions:
- How far did the tumor grow, had she already hit both ovaries.
- Has there already been an infiltration of organs in the abdominal cavity.
- Does the patient have ascites?
- Whether metastases have gone to the liver or lymph nodes.
- Is there a liquid in the pleural cavity?
MRI
MRI or magnetic resonance imaging is an infrequent method for diagnosing ovarian cancer. But in some cases it is used. Due to a rather powerful magnet, the device creates special radio waves, which replace X-rays. The energy of these radio waves is absorbed by the tissues and is then released in a variety of ways (depending on the type of tissue). Radio waves that were released by radio waves are displayed on the computer screen in the form of a picture.
Laparoscopy for ovarian cancer
The procedure of laparoscopy is based on the introduction of a very thin tube with a lamp at the end, thanks to which you can easily examine in detail both ovaries. In order to enter this tube, you need to make a small incision in the lower abdomen. The computer monitor displays the image of the organ that is being checked at the moment. Due to laparoscopy in ovarian cancer, a doctor can determine how much the tumor has spread. Also, this method allows you to think through the operation to the smallest detail. Through the incision in the peritoneum, you can also take a small part of the tissue for a biopsy.