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Gynecologic Cancer

Diagnosis & Treatment

Ovarian Cancer

Find an ovarian cancer specialist

How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis

Ovarian cancer can be diagnosed through multiple examinations and tests that can be administered by NewYork-Presbyterian’s team of ovarian cancer experts. Diagnosis methods can include:

  • Pelvic exams. A doctor will examine the vulva, internal reproductive organs, and abdomen to assess the shape, size, and position of the patient’s uterus and ovaries to detect abnormalities.
  • Imaging tests. A transvaginal ultrasound, CT scan, and/or PET scan can be administered to determine the structure of the patient’s ovaries and detect any abnormalities.
  • Blood tests. These can be used with other examinations to detect certain markers (ca125) that may indicate the presence of a cancerous tumor. A blood test alone is not conclusive but can provide your doctor with valuable information regarding the patient’s prognosis. 
  • Surgery. Exploratory laparoscopic surgery may be performed in order to accurately diagnose ovarian cancer. Also, if an ovarian cyst or mass is surgically removed, additional tests can be performed to determine if cancer is present.
  • Biopsy. A biopsy may be performed to obtain a small sample of the targeted tissue for testing to confirm a diagnosis. This may be recommended for patients with medical conditions that prevent the immediate removal of a tumor or cyst.
  • Genetic testing. Individuals with an increased risk of ovarian cancer due to family history of the disease can consult with a genetic counselor and undergo genetic testing (for example, screening for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations or Lynch syndrome) and receive counseling about screening tests.

How Is Ovarian Cancer Treated

Treatment

Our gynecologic oncologist team at NewYork-Presbyterian is experienced with multiple methods of treating ovarian cancer and can determine the best treatment plan based on the individual patient. Treatment methods include:

  • Surgery. A hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy involves the removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. This procedure is often used to treat ovarian cancer. Our surgeons are also well-versed in debulking surgery, or the removal of tissue where ovarian cancer cells are present within the abdomen.
  • Chemotherapy. Most ovarian cancer patients will need chemotherapy treatment to destroy any cancer cells, even after surgical treatment. Candidates for abdominal chemotherapy can be given this treatment either during the initial surgery when the cancer is removed, or during a separate procedure afterward. 
  • Targeted therapy. Some patients with advanced ovarian cancer or certain genetic mutations can be treated with medications that target the mutation. For example, patients with BRCA gene mutation can be treated with PARP inhibitors, targeted therapeutic drugs that are taken orally.
  • Hormone therapy. Some patients with ovarian cancer may be candidates for hormone therapy treatments. This is intended to deprive cancerous cells of hormones such as estrogen they need to continue growing. 
  • Immunotherapy. Patients with certain types of advanced cervical cancer or advanced ovarian cancers with specific genetic features may receive pembrolizumab, a type of immunotherapy. This treatment boosts the ability of your immune system to detect and kill cancer cells. This immunotherapy is given intravenously.

FAQs

FAQs

No, there is no at-home test to detect ovarian cancer, but there are home screening tests available that can determine if someone has a genetic susceptibility. They require a saliva sample to determine if you have certain genes that increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

These screening tests are sent to your home by your doctor, and you can mail your saliva sample to a lab for analysis. These tests cannot be used to definitively diagnose ovarian cancer, but if you test positive for the genes associated with ovarian cancer, your doctor will order more tests and can recommend additional preventative measures.

Ovarian cancer is relatively rare compared to other types of cancer. Based on data from recent years, ovarian cancer accounts for approximately 1.2 percent of new cancer diagnoses in the United States.

Ovarian cancer often does not have symptoms in its early stages, but people who experience symptoms may feel abdominal discomfort, pain, or bloating. They may also feel a frequent urge to urinate or may feel full very quickly when eating. Other medical conditions can cause these symptoms, so consult a doctor if your symptoms are persistent.

Ovarian cancer spreads relatively quickly and can progress from an early stage to an advanced stage within six months. If people are experiencing symptoms, it’s crucial they consult with a doctor so the cancer can be detected early, providing the best opportunity for successful treatment and recovery.

Ovarian cancer can result from inherited genetic mutations, which means that certain genes increase the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. Genetic counseling and tests can be conducted to determine if someone has one of the genetic mutations that can lead to ovarian cancer.

Get Care

Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Ovarian Cancer Treatment

NewYork-Presbyterian’s dedicated team of health care experts is equipped to provide patients with the top-tier treatment and care services needed to begin the road to recovery. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about the individualized ovarian cancer treatment plan that is best for you.