Advanced Ovarian Cancer
Expert Care for Complex Gynecologic Cancers
What is Advanced Ovarian Cancer?
Advanced ovarian cancer refers to cancer that has spread beyond the ovaries to other parts of the pelvis or abdomen (Stage III) or to distant organs such as the liver or lungs (Stage IV). It often presents with vague symptoms and is commonly diagnosed in later stages, requiring a comprehensive and personalized treatment approach.
Despite being complex, advanced ovarian cancer is treatable, and many patients experience long-term survival and improved quality of life with timely and expert care.
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause is unknown, certain factors increase the risk:
- Family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations
- Increasing age (usually post-menopause)
- Endometriosis
- Never having been pregnant
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Symptoms of Advanced Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer symptoms are often subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions. Common signs include:
- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Feeling full quickly while eating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Fatigue or back pain
- Constipation or indigestion
How is It Diagnosed?
Early detection can be challenging, but the following tests help in diagnosing and staging:
- Pelvic examination
- Ultrasound or CT/MRI scan
- CA-125 blood test (a tumor marker)
- Biopsy or surgical staging
- Genetic testing (BRCA1/2, HRD testing)
Treatment Options for Advanced Ovarian Cancer
- Cytoreductive (Debulking) Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted Therapy
- HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)
- Immunotherapy (in select cases)
Surgical removal of as much cancer as possible from the ovaries and surrounding areas. This improves the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
Usually involves a combination of platinum-based drugs and paclitaxel, given before or after surgery.
Drugs like PARP inhibitors are used in patients with BRCA mutations or homologous recombination deficiency (HRD).
A specialized treatment where heated chemotherapy is delivered directly into the abdominal cavity during surgery for better control of peritoneal disease.
Emerging as an option in clinical trials or specific genetic profiles.
Living with Advanced Ovarian Cancer
Living with advanced disease can be physically and emotionally challenging. Our multidisciplinary team provides:
- Nutritional support
- Pain and symptom management
- Emotional and psychological counseling
- Survivorship planning and support groups
Why Choose Dr. Harish NL?
- Specialized Gynecologic Oncology Team
- Expertise in complex cancer surgeries & HIPEC
- Genetic counseling and personalized therapy
- Access to latest clinical trials and targeted treatments
- Comprehensive care with compassion and privacy