Ovarian Cancer

Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Outlook: Advice from the Maryland Ovarian Cancer Lawyer

The Kopec Law Firm provides this page to help you understand ovarian cancer and your legal rights. Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones. While it’s not the most common form of cancer, it can be aggressive, highlighting the importance of awareness and proactive measures. Accordingly, if you have been the victim of a misdiagnosis of ovarian cancer, contact the Maryland ovarian cancer lawyer at the Kopec Law Firm.

Symptoms

Early detection of ovarian cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Some common signs and symptoms to be especially aware of include:

• Pelvic or abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating
• Changes in eating habits, such as feeling full quickly or losing appetite
• Vaginal bleeding or discharge, especially outside your menstrual cycle or after menopause
• Difficulty urinating or increased urination frequency
• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea
• Unexplained weight gain or loss

If you experience any of these symptoms persistently, then it’s crucial for a doctor to conduct a proper evaluation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing ovarian cancer often involves a combination of tests performed by a gynecologist, a doctor specializing in the female reproductive system. These tests may include:

• Pelvic exam: During a pelvic exam, the doctor physically examines your reproductive organs to check for any abnormalities.
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI scan can help visualize the ovaries and surrounding tissues to detect tumors or fluid buildup.
• Blood tests: While no specific blood test definitively diagnoses ovarian cancer, certain markers can raise suspicion, prompting further investigation.
• Biopsy: In some cases, removing a tissue sample for microscopic examination may be necessary to confirm a cancer diagnosis.

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

The stage of ovarian cancer refers to the extent of its spread. Knowing the stage helps determine the most appropriate treatment course:

• Stage I: Cancer is confined to one or both ovaries.
• Stage II: Cancer has spread beyond the ovaries to the uterus, fallopian tubes, or other tissues within the pelvis.
• Stage III: Cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the abdomen or other distant organs.
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs beyond the abdomen and lymph nodes.

Treatment

The treatment plan for ovarian cancer is typically customized based on the stage, type, and individual patient factors. Some common treatment options include:

• Surgery: This may involve removing one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes, and the uterus. In some cases, additional tissue removal may be necessary depending on the cancer’s extent.
• Chemotherapy: Medications are used to kill cancer cells and may be administered before or after surgery.
• Targeted therapy: These drugs target specific abnormalities in cancer cells, offering a more personalized approach to treatment.
• Radiation therapy: High-energy beams are used to damage and destroy cancer cells, often used in combination with other therapies.

Outcomes

The five year survival rate for ovarian cancer varies significantly depending on the stage at diagnosis. Early detection is crucial, as the five-year survival rate jumps from 42% for Stage III to 92% for Stage I.

Additional Considerations from the Maryland Ovarian Cancer Lawyer

• Genetic testing: If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, then genetic testing can help assess your risk and potentially guide preventive measures.
• Support groups: Connecting with other individuals navigating ovarian cancer can provide emotional support and valuable information.

Next Step Contact the Maryland Ovarian Cancer Lawyer

If you have been the victim of delayed diagnosis of ovarian cancer, visit the free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.