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Ovarian Epithelial Cancer

The most common form of ovarian cancer, often diagnosed at advanced stages.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Ovarian Epithelial Cancer?

Ovarian epithelial cancer accounts for nearly 90% of malignant ovarian tumors. Histologic subtypes include high-grade serous (most common, frequently arising from fallopian tube), low-grade serous, endometrioid, clear cell, and mucinous carcinomas. Most cases are diagnosed in postmenopausal women between 55-70 years.

Pathogenesis is heterogeneous: high-grade serous tumors carry near-universal TP53 mutations and frequent BRCA1/2 alterations, whereas endometrioid and clear cell tumors are associated with endometriosis and ARID1A or PIK3CA mutations. Genetic predisposition (BRCA1/2, Lynch syndrome) accounts for 15-20% of cases. The lifetime risk in BRCA1 carriers reaches 40%.

Symptoms are non-specific (bloating, pelvic pressure, urinary frequency), explaining late diagnosis — over 70% present with stage III-IV disease. Diagnosis combines transvaginal ultrasound, CT/MRI, CA-125, HE4, and ROMA scoring. Treatment relies on cytoreductive surgery to no residual disease followed by platinum/taxane chemotherapy. PARP inhibitor maintenance (olaparib, niraparib) significantly prolongs progression-free survival in BRCA-mutated and HRD-positive disease.

Symptoms

Persistent abdominal bloating and distension
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Early satiety and loss of appetite
Urinary frequency or urgency
Unintentional weight loss
Change in bowel habits
Postmenopausal bleeding (less common)
Fatigue and dyspnea (advanced disease, ascites)

Risk Factors

Family history (BRCA1/2, Lynch, RAD51C/D)
Older age (postmenopausal peak)
Nulliparity or late first pregnancy
Endometriosis (especially endometrioid/clear cell)
Hormone replacement therapy (modest)
Obesity
Pelvic inflammatory disease history
Use of talc-based powders (controversial)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent abdominal bloating > 2 weeks
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Unexplained weight loss with abdominal symptoms
  • Postmenopausal bleeding
  • Strong family history with new symptoms
  • Pelvic mass on imaging or examination

Treatment Methods

01
Cytoreductive surgery: total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, lymph node sampling, debulking
02
Chemotherapy: platinum/taxane combination (carboplatin + paclitaxel) — 6 cycles
03
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy with interval debulking when primary cytoreduction is not feasible
04
PARP inhibitor maintenance: olaparib, niraparib, rucaparib for BRCA/HRD-positive disease
05
Bevacizumab in combination with chemotherapy and as maintenance
06
Recurrence: platinum-based or non-platinum regimens; clinical trials
07
Genetic counseling and BRCA testing for all patients
08
Multidisciplinary care including palliative support

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.