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Ovarian Cancer care in Kolkata

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian Cancer care in Kolkata

In the female reproductive system, the ovaries play a crucial role in the production of eggs (ova) and hormones, including progesterone and estrogen. Ovulation, the monthly alternating release of eggs by the ovaries during a woman's reproductive years, is a crucial step for fertility. These hormones affect bone health and cardiovascular function, in addition to controlling the menstrual cycle.

When cells in the fallopian tubes or ovaries experience aberrant alterations, they grow uncontrollably to create tumours and this is how ovarian cancer begins. Early detection is difficult because symptoms, which might include bloating, pelvic pain, changes in bowel habits, and frequent urination, are sometimes ambiguous.

X-rays and CT scans are used in the diagnosis process. A Biopsy is then performed to confirm the presence of malignant cells. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, several treatment approaches are used, but mostly Targeted medicines, Chemotherapy, and Tumour Removal procedures are used. For ovarian cancer to be effectively treated and to have better results, early detection is still essential.

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FAQ's

Early identification of ovarian cancer might be difficult since it sometimes develops silently in the abdomen. Abdominal or pelvic pain, chronic bloating, changes in eating patterns (e.g., feeling full soon), and appetite loss are among the symptoms. Other typical symptoms include abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding, particularly after menopause, and digestive abnormalities, including constipation or diarrhoea.

Furthermore, ovarian cancer may be present if there is an increase in abdominal size and frequent urination that is not connected to fluid consumption. Early detection of these symptoms is essential for prompt medical assessment and better treatment results.

Although the precise origin of ovarian cancer is unknown, many risk factors are known to play a role in its development. These include obesity, advanced age, particularly if one is over 60, ovarian cancer in the family history, and inherited genetic abnormalities such as BRCA1, BRCA2, or Lynch syndrome. Having endometriosis and never becoming pregnant or having children later in life are additional hazards.

The total risk of ovarian cancer rises with age, which emphasises the significance of routine health examinations and screenings. By being aware of these risk factors, ovarian cancer can be detected early and treatment outcomes can be improved.

From the pelvis, ovarian cancer frequently progresses to the liver, lymph nodes, belly, intestines, stomach, and chest. This metastasis spreads directly or through the lymphatic and circulatory systems. Multiple sites of spread are common in the advanced stages of ovarian cancer, which affects the prognosis and treatment options.

To effectively manage metastatic ovarian cancer and increase survival chances, early identification is essential. Comprehensive therapy regimens customised to each patient's circumstances are needed to effectively manage the intricacies of metastatic disease and improve patients' quality of life.

The lack of reliable ovarian cancer screening techniques makes early diagnosis efforts more difficult. A pelvic exam is usually the first step in the assessment process for medical professionals to look for anomalies or enlarged organs. Imaging procedures such as pelvic ultrasound, MRI, CT scan, or PET scan to visualise ovarian structures are further diagnostic approaches.

Although elevated levels of CA-125 can exist in non-cancerous circumstances, blood tests assessing these levels aid in the detection of potentially malignant activity. As a result, CA-125 testing is frequently used in conjunction with other diagnostic strategies for confirmation. Surgical assessment, which includes Laparoscopy, facilitates the identification and staging of ovarian cancer by allowing direct imaging and biopsies of questionable areas. To improve patient outcomes, these thorough diagnostic procedures are crucial for prompt detection and for directing suitable treatment options.

The goal of ovarian cancer treatment is to remove malignant tissue through surgery, which frequently entails Laparoscopy or Laparotomy for the removal of reproductive organs. Chemotherapy can be administered intravenously or orally, and it can be used either before or after surgery to target and remove cancer cells. Hormone treatment suppresses hormones that encourage the growth of cancer, while Targeted Therapy uses medications to stop particular mechanisms used by cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy is rarely applied to ovarian cancer. Following treatment, patients are monitored for cancer recurrence through routine follow-up sessions. This monitoring usually entails physical examinations, symptom evaluation, and occasionally CT scans. It is essential to maintain continuous care and identify any possible recurrence as soon as possible by keeping your medical professionals informed about any new symptoms.

While there is no 100% guarantee against ovarian cancer, understanding one's family history might help determine one's risk. Due to increased vulnerability to genetic abnormalities such as BRCA, risk-reducing operations such as ovarian and fallopian tube removal before cancer starts are being considered. To precisely determine mutations and individualised risk levels, medical professionals advise genetic testing. 

To effectively manage the risk of ovarian cancer, routine tests and early detection techniques are essential. For those with genetic predispositions to reduce their risk of ovarian cancer, they must take the initiative when making healthcare decisions.

Without ovaries, it is possible to lead a long and healthy life. Ovarian excision, which is frequently performed to cure ovarian cancer or lower cancer risk in high-risk patients, has no effect on life expectancy in general. However, if both ovaries are removed, the treatment does result in menopause, which can bring on symptoms including mood swings, vaginal dryness, and hot flashes.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is frequently advised to treat menopausal symptoms and possible long-term consequences such as bone density loss. Overall, following ovarian excision, people can have happy lives with a focus on their general health and well-being if they receive the right medical attention and follow-up.