Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths in women, and is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system. Some notable personalities who have succumbed to the disease include comedian Gilda Radner, actress Madeline Kahn, and singer Dinah Shore. As with so many forms of cancer, the problem with ovarian cancer is that by the time it is diagnosed, it has usually metastasized significantly to other parts of the body. This has led researchers to search for methods of detecting ovarian cancer in its early stages.

What are the Indications of Ovarian Cancer Screening?

Screening for ovarian cancer is indicated in order to detect the disease as early as possible. As the biomarkers of ovarian cancer become better defined and accuracy increases, this sort of testing should become routine.

Am I a Candidate for Ovarian Cancer Screening?

Any woman can technically be a candidate for screening. However, the best candidates for ovarian cancer screening are those who statistically are at greatest risk for developing the disease. These include women with the following conditions:

• A mother and/or sister who have had ovarian cancer
• Previous history of breast cancer
• Over 50 years of age, Caucasian
• No children
• Use of talc products in feminine hygiene
• Use of fertility-enhancing drugs
• What Does the Procedure Involve?

The basic screening technique is a pelvic exam. This can detect some ovarian cancers, but it is not a highly accurate screening method.

Transvaginal Ultrasonography (TVU) is a method that relies on the use of an ultrasound probe inserted into the vagina. An image is formed from the pattern of sound waves. Studies have shown that a fair number of ovarian cancers have been detected in asymptomatic women using this method.  

CA-125 is an antigen present in blood. Elevated CA-125 levels have been shown to be a marker associated with ovarian cancer. Therefore, testing the blood for CA-125 can give early warning about the possibility of ovarian cancer.

What Are the Advantages of Ovarian Cancer Screening?

Because ovarian cancer metastasizes so fast and so easily, early detection is critical. If a tumor is localized to the ovary, it can be surgically resected and cure is possible.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

You should be screened on a regular basis if you have any of the risk factors identified above.

Will I Have Pain?

The procedures used for ovarian cancer screening are generally non-invasive and painless.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

You may return to work immediately.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

All treatments are performed by our expert physicians, who are extensively trained in the administration and interpretation of these types of tests.

How Much Does Ovarian Cancer Screening Cost?

The cost for this procedure may vary from patient to patient depending on various factors; however, we guarantee that our pricing will always be competitive with that of other local providers furnishing equivalent services.

We provide excellent financing options, and discounts for multiple procedures are available.

For Further Information

If you are interested in these powerful new screening techniques, call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 and arrange a private consultation. We can answer any questions you might have about ovarian cancer screening or anything else!