$Unique_ID{BRK01227}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System}
$Title{Tests for Ovarian Cancer}
$Subject{ovary cancer screening test}
$Volume{J-22}
$Log{
Ovarian Cancer*0010301.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Tests for Ovarian Cancer


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QUESTION:  I learned from a television show that ovarian cancer can be
detected by using two tests, a sonogram and a CA 125 blood test.  I called my
gynecologist and he said I could have the two tests if I had a pelvic
examination first.  Because I had my uterus removed due to a class III test
result, I am somewhat cautious about other pre-cancerous cells developing.
Since ovarian cancer is so dangerous and often a killer, shouldn't these tests
be done on a routine basis like the PAP test?

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ANSWER:  Your are right about the seriousness of ovarian cancer.  About 18,500
cases are seen each year, and some 11,000 or more women will die of this
disease.  In fact ovarian cancers are responsible for 6 percent of all cancer
deaths in women.  That means it deserves some attention.  Unfortunately
neither the CA 125 blood test nor the sonogram are efficient screening tests.
The PAP smear is relatively inexpensive, can be performed in the physician's
office, is highly reliable, and can detect the presence of abnormal cells
before they actual become cancerous.  By comparison both the CA 125 blood test
and the sonogram are relatively expensive and are not specific for ovarian
cancer.  Sonograms just produce pictures of a mass or new growth, using
reflected sound waves, with out specific diagnosis, and the CA 125 is a
non-specific marker that can also be elevated in conditions such as cirrhosis
of the liver.  Neither test can detect the pre-cancerous state, but are useful
in helping to make a diagnosis of a cancer already present, and then following
the results of therapy and the effectiveness of treatments.  Thus the first
line of defense for this condition, as for so many others, remains the careful
and attentive physical examination performed by your physician.  When this
evaluation yields indications that more investigation is necessary, the other
tests can then be ordered and interpreted.  As to your worries about the
relationship between your previous PAP smear findings and this cancer, there
seems little to concern you, as one condition is not a risk factor for the
other.  Incidentally, both child birth and the use of oral contraceptives
seems to lower the chance of ovarian cancer.  My advice to you is to follow
the course of action your physician has outlined for you, for it certainly
follows current knowledge about ovarian cancer.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
