Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis

A diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer has several different steps

1. Physical Exam: this may include a thorough health history and a pelvic exam. An enlarged ovary palpated in a pelvic exam, or ascites (fluid over the lower abdomen) are cause for a second step.

2. CA-125 Test: This blood test determines if the level of CA-125, a protein produced by ovarian cancer cells, has increased in the blood of a woman at high risk for ovarian cancer or with an abnormal pelvic examination. NOTE: Several non-cancerous diseases of the ovaries may result in an increased CA-125 level. This is not a singular diagnosis tool! However, a positive CA-125 test and an enlarged ovary should initiate the next step.

3. Gynecologic Oncologist: This specialist focuses in cancers of the female reproductive system. A gynecologic oncologist is trained to diagnose and treat these specific cancers. They will most likely perform a ultrasound or MRI to determine whether any masses are liquid or fluid filled. These doctors are also the most qualified to help a women move forward with selecting a treatment for the cancer. 



Still have questions about how an Ovarian Cancer diagnosis is made? Check out these helpful organizations and their websites: 

The American Cancer Society has excellent information @ http://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovariancancer/detailedguide/ovarian-cancer-diagnosis. They are an authoritative voice on every cancer and type of treatment. 

National Ovarian Cancer Coalition @ http://www.ovarian.org/detection.php. This is a smaller organization that focuses specifically on ovarian cancer. They have a really helpful resource section.