Ovarian Cancer

If a woman has symptoms suspicious of ovarian cancer, her doctor will review her medical history, perform a physical exam, and order tests to help make a diagnosis.

Some of the following tests and procedures may be used:

• Pelvic exam: The doctor will feel the reproductive organs, bladder, and rectum to determine if there are any abnormalities in their shape, size, or position.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound is a procedure that uses sound waves to view internal organs. Ultrasound can help differentiate between normal tissue, cysts (non-cancerous fluid-filled sacs), and tumors.
• CA 125 assay: This blood test measures the level of CA 125 in the blood. CA 125 is a tumor marker that is often increased in women with ovarian cancer.
• Barium enema (lower GI series): This is a series of x-rays of the lower digestive tract, which is performed after a woman receives an enema with a barium solution. The barium outlines the digestive tract, making tumors easier to see.
• Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan): A CT scan takes detailed x-rays of internal organs.

If any of these tests suggest ovarian cancer, a biopsy may be performed to confirm a diagnosis. A biopsy is the removal of cells or tissues for examination under a microscope. Although biopsies typically involve the removal of a small amount of tissue, the entire ovary is commonly removed in a case of suspected ovarian cancer so that cancer cells, if present, are not released into the abdominal cavity.

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