How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
Ovarian cancer detection can be difficult because its symptoms are subtle and may mimic those of other conditions. Currently, there is no standard screening test for ovarian cancer like there is for other cancers such as colorectal or breast cancer. However, there are a variety of procedures and exams your doctor can perform to confirm whether you have the disease, including various types of imaging tests and scans.
If you are at high risk for ovarian cancer or are showing symptoms, such as bloating, fatigue, or pelvic pain, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following exams to confirm a diagnosis of ovarian cancer.
What are the stages of ovarian cancer?
All cancers are divided into four stages. The characteristics of each stage depend on the cancer. For ovarian cancer:
- Stage I: The cancer is found in one or both ovaries.
- Stage II: The cancer is found in one or both ovaries and has spread to other areas of the pelvis.
- Stage III: The cancer is found in one or both ovaries and has spread beyond the pelvis to other parts of the abdomen or to nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage IV: The cancer has spread beyond the abdomen to other parts of the body.
Ovarian cancer diagnosis at Penn Medicine
At Penn Medicine, diagnosing ovarian cancer involves a comprehensive and precise process. Our specialists begin by determining whether you are at high risk or showing any symptoms. If you are, they may recommend an ultrasound or blood test to detect any abnormalities. If initial tests raise concerns, you may need advanced imaging tests to identify the presence of a mass and assess its characteristics. If these tests suggest the possibility of cancer, the final step is surgery, which is the only definitive way to confirm an ovarian cancer diagnosis. Our expertise in minimally invasive ovarian cancer surgery, advanced diagnostic technology, and highly skilled specialists allow us to make an accurate diagnosis. Once a specific cancer diagnosis is made, our gynecological specialists can create an ovarian cancer treatment plan that’s best for you.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.