Naked Science Forum
Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: Broca on 31/08/2003 00:02:15
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I am wondering what any of you know about a malignant ovarian tumor. It is the size of a baseball and will be removed shortly. The woman who has this is upbeat but wonders what if there is anything she can do to prepare for the subsequent chemo and radiation. I do not know if the cancer has spread. I just knew that after she spoke to me about it, that I would turn to all of you wonderful, caring, and knowledgable people for suggestions, comments, and information.
Thank you.
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Hmmmm, and I don't have anything encouraging to tell you. Generally, when ovarian cancer is discovered, it has already spread and it's too late. Usually, the first symptom is ascites, or swelling of the abdomen due to fluid accumulation. By then, you're pretty non-salvagable. If they discovered the tumor by accident, like perhaps when they had her open to do some other surgery, then there might be a chance, but with the size of the tumor, I doubt it. But go for the chemo and radiation cause it's her only chance, and also, it might help to alleviate some of the pain later. Sorry, I wish I could give you better news. I personally haven't known anyone who's survived it.
Bezoar
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I didn't figure the out come was very good. I have not heard very good things about Ovarian cancer. I figured if anyone had any good , helpful information it would be you. I will encourage her to go through with the plans of chemo and radiation. She has already made her mind up to do that, but I am sure that there are some very low points in the whole process where she might feel the desire to change her mind. Thank you
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The outcome depends very much on the staging and histological grading of the tumour. If the disease is confined to the ovary the prognosis can be very good. It is possible that the tumour is associated with a cyst and hence much of the volume is not solid tumour.
How was the tumour picked up ? Is it a confirmed (i.e. tissue biopsy positive) malignancy ?
Chris
"I never forget a face, but in your case I'll make an exception"
- Groucho Marx
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The tumour was found during an IVP but then confirmed through an MRI. No tissue biopsy was done, blood work gave them the prognosis of Malignant. They are going to simply take it out as it is so large and she is 62.