OVARIAN, FALLOPIAN TUBE, PRIMARY PERITONEAL CANCER

Ovarian, fallopian tube, primary peritoneal cancer are diseases in which cancer (malignant) cells are developed in the tissue that covers the lining of the fallopian tube or ovary. Additionally, these cancers form similar types of tissue and are treated in the same means.

The ovaries are two organs in the woman’s reproductive system. They are found in the pelvis—each at both sides of the uterus. Moreover, they are about the same shape and size as an almond.

Meanwhile, the fallopian or uterine tubes are two slender, long tubes, one on every side of the uterus. The eggs move from the ovaries, going through the uterine tubes  and to the uterus. Occasionally, cancer starts at the end of the uterine tube, closes the ovary, and expands to the ovary.

The peritoneum, on the other hand, is a tissue that lines up in the stomach wall and conceals organs in the stomach. Primary peritoneal cancer is a kind of cancer that develops in the peritoneum and has not transferred or spread from other parts of the body.

Moreover, risk factors that cause these cancers include:

  • Family history
  • Obesity
  • Inherited changes in BRCA2 OR BRCA genes
  • Tall height
  • Endometriosis
  • Postmenopausal hormone therapy

SYMPTOMS

Ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer may not cause advanced symptoms or signs. However, when symptoms do arise, the cancer is usually advanced. These symptoms include:

  • Feeling full or having problems in eating
  • Frequent or sudden urge to urinate
  • Gastrointestinal issues, like constipation or bloating
  • A lump in the pelvic area
  • Swelling, pain, or pressure in the pelvis or abdomen

These symptoms also might be due to other diseases and not by ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer. If the symptoms get severe and do not disappear, seek immediate medical attention so that your condition will be diagnosed and treated immediately.

DIAGNOSIS

To diagnose ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancer, the doctor may do the following tests:

  • Pelvic exam
  • Physical exam and review of your medical history
  • Ultrasound exam
  • CA 125 assay
  • Transvaginal ultrasound
  • PET scan
  • CT scan
  • Chest X-ray
  • MRI
  • Biopsy

TREATMENT

There are different kinds of treatment available for individuals with ovarian, fallopian tubes, and peritoneal cancer. Depending on the stage of cancers and which part is it on, these treatments may be conducted:

  • Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapy

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