What should you know about malignant ovarian cancer?

Malignant means that abnormal cells can grow into nearby tissue and may spread elsewhere. Ovarian cancer is not one single disease: the cell type, grade and place where it has spread help the team understand it. Assessment may include a pelvic examination, blood tests and imaging such as pelvic ultrasound. A tissue sample obtained during surgery or another procedure can clarify the diagnosis. Genetic information may also matter, including inherited BRCA changes and features found in the tumour itself.

Treatment is individualised. It may combine surgery to remove visible disease with chemotherapy. An operation may involve removal of one or both ovaries, and sometimes other nearby tissue. Genomic tumour profiling can identify features that affect treatment choices. Supportive care can address pain, nausea, fatigue, nutrition, fertility concerns and emotional strain alongside cancer treatment.

Arrange care with a gynaecological oncology team and bring a list of symptoms, medicines, previous operations and family cancer history. Ask what tests are needed before treatment and whether genetic counselling or BRCA genetic testing is appropriate. The team may discuss pelvic ultrasound, chemotherapy, oophorectomy or ovarian cancer debulking surgery depending on the findings. Keep a record of new symptoms and treatment effects, and ask who to contact outside appointments.

Contact your oncology team promptly for increasing abdominal swelling, persistent vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, new severe pain, fever or marked weakness. Seek urgent medical help for sudden severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, confusion or heavy bleeding. These symptoms need assessment because they can signal a complication or another urgent illness, regardless of the cancer diagnosis.

Which ovarian cancer type and stage has been identified? What did the tissue and imaging results show? Would genetic counselling or tumour profiling change my options? What are the aims, timing and side effects of surgery or chemotherapy? Who should I call between visits?