Ovarian Colorado
Information for the Public
How is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and do a physical examination, including a pelvic and rectal exam. A blood test for a protein called CA125 may be helpful, because this protein level may be high if ovarian cancer is present. However, it can be elevated for other reasons, so it can’t be relied upon without other tests that will be needed as well. You may be scheduled for an ultrasound examination. Sound waves are used to make an image of the ovaries, to look at their size, shape and texture. Another ultrasound technique uses color to study the blood vessels supplying the ovary, because the blood vessels that are associated with a tumor are smaller.
If cancer is suspected, surgery by a gynecological oncologist is needed to examine the ovary. The ovarian tissue is removed and analyzed by a pathologist. The only way to confirm the presence of ovarian cancer is through this procedure.
A pap test, that examines the cells of the cervix, does not indicate whether or not a woman has ovarian cancer.
It is important that you have a ‘partnering’ relationship with your health care provider and share concerns that you may have about your symptoms. If you continue to be concerned, you or your physician may want to have a second opinion.