Ovarian cancer can be divided into 3 major categories based on the type of cell from which it arises. This includes :

• Epithelial carcinoma
• Germ cell carcinoma
• Sex cord and stromal carcinoma

These are primary carcinomas of the ovary, which originate in the ovary itself.

The other type of carcinoma that may be found in the ovary is known as secondary or metastatic carcinoma. Here, the primary cancer is elsewhere in the body but it has metastasized to the ovary.

continue reading Types of Ovarian Cancers – Unilateral, Bilateral

Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is usually diagnosed late since it develops insidiously, with very few warning signs or symptoms. Even when present, the complaints are often so vague that it is invariably mistaken for gastrointestinal symptoms. Abnormal vaginal bleeding may be the only gynecological problem.Even so, ovarian cancer is usually not the first diagnosis to be considered in women with such symptoms. This is further compounded by the lack of good screening methods for detecting ovarian cancer in the early stages. Unfortunately, this delay in diagnosis usually costs the patient in terms of treatment and management.

continue reading Ovarian Cancer Signs, Symptoms, Complications and Prevention

Ovarian cancer is cancer that develops in the ovaries, the two small organs on either side of the uterus, which produce ova (eggs) as well as secrete the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer is mainly seen in post-menopausal women but it can occur at any age. Although rare, more women die from ovarian cancer than from uterine cancer and cervical cancer put together because it usually causes few symptoms in the early stages. Those symptoms that do develop are often vague and may mimic those of digestive disorders, such as abdominal pain, discomfort or distension, and are likely to be overlooked.

continue reading What is Ovarian Cancer? Spread of Malignant Ovary Growth

The focus on treatment of cervical cancer is to prevent precancerous lesions progressing to invasive cancer. Following an abnormal Pap smear and if the biopsy shows normal cells even in the deeper layers, no further treatment is advised except regular Pap tests and close monitoring.

Pre-cancerous lesions seen in the deeper layer, beyond the biopsy area, are usually treated with cold knife conization, LEEP, laser conization, laser vaporization, or cryotherapy. Hysterectomy may be an option for women who have completed their family.

continue reading Cervical Cancer Treatment, Surgery, Radiation and Chemotherapy

Screening Test and Cervical Cancer Detection

Clinical History

The symptoms of cervical cancer generally appear in the advanced stage, while the early stages are largely asymptomatic (without symptom). Early diagnosis greatly increases the success of the prescribed treatment and therefore the prognosis. Read more on cervical cancer prognosis.

Symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain, which are often neglected, should be taken into account and investigated. Routine screening is the ideal approach and regular pap smears can detect pre-cancerous changes. Women who are at risk should ensure more regular visits and specialized screening measures. Read more on cervical cancer risks.

continue reading Cervical Cancer Diagnosis, Screening – Pap Smear, Scans, Biopsy