Ovarian Cancer - Prognosis

Treatment

In general, the course of treatment is determined by the stage of the cancer. Stages range from I to IV based on the cancer's specific characteristics, such as whether it has spread beyond the ovaries. Surgery is the main treatment for ovarian cancer. Following surgery, women with higher-stage tumors may receive chemotherapy. Women can also consider enrolling in clinical trials that are investigating new types of treatments.

About 10 - 15% of epithelial ovarian tumors are referred to as "borderline" because their appearance and behavior under the microscope is between benign and malignant. These tumors are also called "carcinomas of low malignant potential" because they rarely metastasize or cause death. Borderline ovarian tumors are most often seen in younger women with epithelial ovarian cancer. Surgery is usually recommended to remove these tumors. Chemotherapy may also be used to treat borderline tumors that appear to have more aggressive features (such as recurring after surgery).

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Stages

Stage I. In stage I, the cancer has not spread. It is confined to one ovary (stage IA) or both ovaries (stage IB). In stages IA and IB, the ovarian capsules are intact, and there are no tumors on the surface. Stage IC can affect one or both ovaries, but the tumors are on the surface, or the capsule is ruptured, or there is evidence of tumor cells in abdominal fluid (ascites). The overall 5-year survival rate for stage IA or IB can be as high as 90%, depending on the type of tumors and whether cells are well or poorly differentiated. Stage IC has a poorer outlook than the earlier stages. It is very important that women receive an accurate staging assessment, including a pathologic review conducted by a gynecologic pathologist.

Stage II. In stage II, the cancer has spread to other areas in the pelvis. It may have advanced to the uterus or fallopian tubes (stage IIA), or other areas within the pelvis (stage IIB), but is still limited to the pelvic area. Stage IIC indicates capsular involvement, rupture, or positive washings (that is, they contain malignant cells).