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Ovarian Cancer

Description

Ovaries are small oval-shaped glands on both sides of the uterus in a woman's pelvic area. Ovarian cancer is a condition in which cells in the ovary start dividing and multiplying in an abnormal manner and this abnormal multiplication of cells results in the formation of a tumor inside the ovary. If left undetected and untreated, this cancer may spread to other parts of the body. Ovarian cancer be fatal if not diagnosed at an early stage.

Causes

There are no known causes of ovarian cancer. Just like any other cancer, mutations (errors) in the DNA of cells of ovary causes rapid multiplication of these abnormal cells, thereby killing all the healthy cells. The accumulation of these abnormal cells results in the formation of a tumor which if not detected at an early stage may break off and start spreading to other parts of the body.

Risk factors

The precise cause of ovarian cancer is still not known. However following factors are the believed to be associated with the development of ovarian cancer:

  • Previous history of breast cancer.
  • Advancing age.
  • Smoking
  • Talc exposure.
  • Increased weight
  • Hereditary (family history of ovarian cancer increases the risk)
  • Mutation of the gene BRCA 1 /2
  • Having menstrual cycle at an early age (before 12)
  • Menstruation continued after the age of 50
  • Infertility
  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome
Symptoms

Known symptoms of ovarian cancer are:

  • Abdominal bloating or swelling,
  • Quickly feeling full when eating,
  • Weight loss,
  • Discomfort in the pelvis area,
  • Constipation,
  • Increased urination,
  • Menstrual irregularities,
  • Back pain,
  • Fatigue,
  • Heartburn,
  • Painful intercourse.
Diagnosis

To reach a diagnosis, your doctor will take your detailed medical and family history, will thoroughly examine your abdomen and pelvic area, and will recommend you get a few laboratory investigations like biopsy and abdominal and pelvic CT scan done.

Management

The type of treatment will depend on the stage of the patient’s ovarian cancer.

  • CONVENTIONAL METHODS
  1. Surgical removal of cancer tissues
  2. Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
  3. Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells.
  • COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES
  1. Meditation and relaxation is advised
  2. Massage
  3. Biofeedback therapy (it is a therapy that helps prevents high blood pressure, headaches, chronic pain)
When to consult a doctor?
  • If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above consult an Endocrinologist (specialist in hormonal problems) or an Infertility specialist, a doctor trained to give specialized treatment.
  • Don’t dismiss any irregularities in your menstrual cycle. Visit a doctor if your periods are irregular.

Available Medicine for Ovarian Cancer

Carboplatin 150mg

Rs.1000

Pfizer

Carboplatin 450mg

Rs.3000

Atco

Carbotinol 150mg

Rs.1403.87

Al Habib

Carbotinol 450mg

Rs.3899

Al Habib

Carbotinol 50mg

Rs.971

Al Habib

Carpsol 150mg

Rs.3133.84

Pfizer

Carpsol 50mg

Rs.1716.25

Pfizer

Cytocarb 150mg

Rs.2225

A.J Mirza

Cytocarb 450mg

Rs.4450

A.J Mirza

Kemocarb 450mg / 45 ml

Rs.4450

Atco

Pharmaplatin 150mg

Rs.2225

Pharmadic

Toxiplatin 150mg

Rs.1892

CCL

Toxiplatin 450mg

Rs.3780

CCL

Carbotinol 450 mg / 45 ml

Rs.5723.76

Al Habib Pharmaceuticals

Melpha 2mg

Rs.720

Pharmadic