Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian Cancer

OVERVIEW:

Ovarian cancer comprises a variety of malignancies that arise from the ovary.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

• Vague gastrointestinal symptoms
• Bloating, heartburn
• Abdominal swelling, pain, and distention
• Occasional vaginal discharge
• Irregular vaginal bleeding
• Pelvic mass
• Painful intercourse
• Weight loss

CAUSES:

Unknown

SCOPE:

Ovarian cancer is responsible for 12,000 deaths each year in the United States. It is the 5th
leading cause of cancer death in women.

MOST OFTEN AFFECTED:

• The most common form of ovarian cancer affects women 40-75 years of age.
• Other types of ovarian cancer affect women 12-40 years of age.
• May have a genetic component

RISK FACTORS:

• Risk decreases as the number of childbirths increases.
• Late pregnancies (over 30 years of age)
• Family history

DIAGNOSIS

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION:

The Physician will perform a physical examination to identify the presence of ovarian cancer and associated conditions.

TESTS AND PROCEDURES:

• Blood tests
• Other radiological procedures may be used, including mammogram, barium enema, computed tomography (CT scan) and upper gastrointestinal (GI) series.
• Pelvic ultrasound may be used to assist in diagnosis.
• A sample of ovarian tissue may be obtained for laboratory analysis.
• Surgery may be necessary for diagnosis and staging.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES:

• Ovarian cancer is usually managed by hospitalization.
• Surgical staging and debulking are critical.
• Chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy may be recommended by oncologist.
• Other surgical procedures (e.g. hysterectomy) may be necessary.

ACTIVITY:

As tolerated

DIET:

High-protein diet

MEDICATIONS

COMMONLY PRESCRIBED DRUGS:

• Platinum-based regimen (cisplatin or carboplatin)
• Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
• Paclitaxel (Taxol)
• Other drugs based on current protocol

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

Cisplatin: impaired kidney function, hearing loss, nerve disease

PRECAUTIONS:

All drugs cause bone marrow suppression. Cisplatin is toxic to the eyes, kidney, and peripheral nerves.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:

Read drug product information.

Other Drugs:

• Etoposide
• 5-Fluorouracil
• Doxorubicin (Adriamycin)
• Melphalan, hexamethylmelamine, ifosfamide, thiotepa
• Ondansetron (Zofran), dronabinol (Marinol), metoclopramide (Reglan), and others for nausea

FOLLOW UP

PATIENT MONITORING:

The Physician should be seen as often as needed to assess health and monitor drug therapy.

PREVENTION/AVOIDANCE:

Oral contraceptive agents may provide some protection.

COMPLICATIONS: