ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer cell origin

Most arise from epithelial cells

Ovarian cancer significance

Most deaths of any female reproductive cancer; 5th leading cancer death in women; often diagnosed late

Ovarian cancer spread

Peritoneal fluid, lymphatics, bloodstream

Ovarian cancer risk factors

Postmenopausal age, BRCA1/BRCA2, family hx breast/ovarian cancer, nulliparity, early menarche/late menopause, endometriosis, HRT

Early ovarian cancer signs

Persistent bloating, pelvic/abdominal pain, early satiety, urinary urgency/frequency, fatigue

Late ovarian cancer signs

Abdominal distention, ascites, weight loss, nausea, constipation, dyspnea

Common ovarian cancer metastatic sites

Peritoneum, omentum, liver, diaphragm, lymph nodes

Ovarian cancer tumor marker

CA-125

Ovarian cancer diagnostics

Pelvic exam, transvaginal ultrasound, CA-125, CT/MRI, surgical biopsy

Ovarian cancer staging

I ovaries; II pelvis; III abdomen or lymph nodes; IV distant metastasis

Primary ovarian cancer treatment

Surgery: total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, debulking

Ovarian cancer chemotherapy

Carboplatin + paclitaxel, given after surgery

Ovarian cancer nursing considerations

Monitor distention/ascites, pain, nutrition, chemo complications; psychosocial support

Ovarian cancer patient teaching

Report persistent bloating/pelvic pain, follow-ups, chemo side effects, genetic counseling if indicated