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Ovarian cancer vs ovarian cyst

Ovarian cancer vs ovarian cyst<br />

Author

Dr. Nilesh Chordiya

Cancer Surgeon Specialist in Mumbai

Regarding women’s health, ovarian cancer and ovarian cysts are two conditions that can cause significant concern.

But what do these terms mean, and how do they differ? Knowing the answers to these questions is essential, as ovarian cancer and ovarian cysts require different methods of diagnosis and treatment.

In this article, we’ll explore what precisely ovarian cancer is, its causes, its symptoms, how it differs from ovarian cysts, and their respective treatments.

We’ll also discuss tips for maintaining good reproductive health and understanding the signs of either condition.

By the end of this article, you should have a better idea of how to identify each condition so that you can seek medical help at an earlier stage if needed.

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer in women, with a prevalence of about one in 75 women.

The primary cause of ovarian cancer is still unknown.

Still, certain factors have been linked to an increased risk, such as a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer, age 40 or older, endometriosis, fertility drugs, never giving birth, and being overweight.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer can range from mild to severe and may not be noticeable until more advanced stages.

Common symptoms include abdominal pain or discomfort, changes in urinary frequency or urgency (such as needing to go more often), feeling full after eating only a small amount of food, fatigue, and weight loss unrelated to dieting.

If you experience these symptoms for three weeks or more, you must consult your doctor for further evaluation.

Ovarian cysts

Ovarian cysts are prevalent and affect an estimated 10-20% of women of reproductive age.

They are commonly found in premenopausal women because they occur naturally during ovulation.

The cause of ovarian cysts is not fully understood; however, they can be caused by hormonal imbalances, endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

The most common symptom associated with ovarian cysts is pain in the lower abdomen which can range from mild to severe depending on the size and location of the cyst.

Other symptoms include bloating, appetite changes, menstrual cycle frequency or duration, difficulty urinating or having a bowel movement, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Most ovarian cysts do not require treatment, but larger ones may need surgery.

If you experience these symptoms for three weeks or more, you must consult your doctor for further evaluation.

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Ovarian Cancer vs Ovarian Cysts: Key differences

Both ovarian cancer and ovarian cysts present similar symptoms, and it’s essential to understand the differences between them to receive accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Ovarian Cancer

  • Ovarian cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumour.
  • Diagnosis for ovarian cancer may include imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan and blood tests to measure the levels of specific proteins associated with cancer.
  • Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on how advanced it is but typically involves surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Ovarian Cysts

  • Ovarian cysts are non-cancerous (benign) fluid-filled sacs.
  • Diagnosis of ovarian cysts can usually be made through imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan.
  • Treatment for ovarian cysts is typically only required if they are large, causing discomfort or other symptoms.

In such cases, the cyst may need to be surgically removed or drained, or hormonal medications may also be prescribed to prevent new cysts from forming.

Recent research or developments related to ovarian tumours and cysts

Recent research into ovarian tumors and cysts has provided insights relevant to patient care and prognosis.

For example, research suggests that specific mutations in a gene called BRCA1 or BRCA2 can increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer and certain cysts.

Additionally, recent studies have shown that having a family history of ovarian cancer or cysts can indicate increased risk.

The same research indicates that early detection is vital for both ovarian cancer and cysts, so it is crucial for individuals with any potential risk factors to monitor their health closely.

In some cases, screening for these conditions may be recommended. Treatment options for both diseases have also become increasingly sophisticated, improving patient outcomes.

Understanding the signs of either condition

Here are some tips for maintaining good reproductive health and understanding the signs of either ovarian cancer or ovarian cysts:

  • Visit your healthcare provider regularly for checkups, including gynaecological exams.
  • Monitor any changes to your menstrual cycle, including irregular bleeding, pain in the pelvic area during menstruation, and frequent urination.
  • Watch for signs of abdominal swelling or bloating that may indicate growth on the ovaries.
  • Know the risk factors associated with ovarian cancer and ovarian cysts (such as a family history of these conditions).
  • Make healthy lifestyle choices by exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • If you experience any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

 

In conclusion, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the risk factors associated with ovarian tumours and cysts and to visit their healthcare provider regularly if they have any concerns.

Finding these conditions early can make all the difference in treatment response and outcomes.

Maintaining good reproductive health can also reduce the risk of developing either disease.

If you are concerned about your risk or notice any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

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    About Author

    Dr. Nilesh is a renowned Cancer surgeon/consultant practicing at SSO Hospital, Infinity Media Surge Hospital, and Navkaar Cancer Clinic Mumbai and he is also a visiting consultant at various hospitals in Mumbai, Thane, Dombivali, Kalyan, Navi Mumbai, etc. With over 10+ years of experience, he is highly trained and specialized in performing GI & Gynae cancer surgery procedures from the simplest to the most complicated surgeries.

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