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Ovarian cancer originates in the tissues of the ovary. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2012, there were 22,280 new cases and 15,500 deaths from ovarian cancer in the United States alone. Since screening tests for ovarian cancer are not popular, the cancer is normally diagnosed in its later stages when recovery is not possible.

Tests For Diagnosing Ovarian Cancer

Tests for ovarian cancer include the following.

• Ultrasound: An ultrasound helps your doctor know the size, shape, and organization of the ovaries. In a transvaginal ultrasound, an ultrasound probe may be inserted into the vagina to get a clear picture of the ovaries.
• Pelvic Exam: A pelvic exam is unlikely to disclose early forms of ovarian cancer, but it can help doctors notice variations from baseline conditions. It is recommended that women aged 18 and above undergo an annual vaginal examination and women over 25, a yearly rectovaginal examination. In this exam, the doctor palpates the vagina and rectum at the same time, and he/she will be able to notice any abnormalities like tenderness and unusual swelling.
• CA 125 Blood Test: Found on the surface of ovarian cancer cells and some healthy tissue is the protein CA 125. A blood test for ovarian cancer is conducted to check for unusually high levels of CA 125. Unfortunately, some noncancerous conditions can also cause elevated levels of CA 125, while women with ovarian cancer in the early stages may have normal CA 125 levels. As a result, the CA 125 test for ovarian cancer is not usually used to diagnose or screen ovarian cancer, though it can be used to monitor the progress of the treatment.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is done to confirm diagnosis. An incision is made in the abdomen to explore and see whether or not a tumor is present in the abdominal cavity. Fluid samples or ovarian tissue can be removed and sent to be examined by a pathologist to see whether the tumor is malignant or benign.
• CT or MRI: A computer is used to get a three dimensional view of the abdomen to see if there are any abnormalities.
• Genetic Testing: In a genetic test for ovarian cancer, the doctor looks for hereditary altered genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2) that may put you at a higher risk of getting certain kinds of cancer. A blood sample is required to check for these genes.

Doctors use the outcome of these tests to establish the extent to which the cancer has progressed. The stage at which the cancer is will then help determine prognosis and treatment plans.

References

• http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/screening/ovarian/Patient/page3
• http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/genetics/genetic-testing-for-breast-and-ovarian-cancer-risk
• http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/OvarianCancer/DetailedGuide/ovarian-cancer-diagnosis
• http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/ovarian