4 steps to diagnose ovarian cancer

Early diagnosis of ovarian cancer is very important and has a great impact on prognosis. How can ovarian cancer be diagnosed? The following four steps should be taken to check

Step 1: Transvaginal B-ultrasound

Observe the changes in ovarian size and blood flow imaging. Generally speaking, the ovarian size of premenopausal women is 20 cubic centimeters, and that of postmenopausal women is about 10 cubic centimeters. If it exceeds the normal range by a large amount, it can be determined to be an ovarian disease.

Step 2: Tumor marker test

CA-125

80% of patients with ovarian epithelial cancer have CA125 levels higher than normal; in more than 90% of patients, the changes in CA125 levels are consistent with the remission or deterioration of the disease, which is particularly specific for serous adenocarcinoma.

HCG

It is specific for primary ovarian choriocarcinoma.

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)

It is specific for diagnosing ovarian mucinous adenocarcinoma and intestinal malignancies. CEA is elevated in 58% of advanced ovarian cancers, especially those with larger tumors or intestinal metastases.

Step 3: “Triple diagnosis” examination

A combined examination of the vagina, rectum, and abdomen can reveal metastatic nodules hidden in the uterus and rectal fossa.

Step 4: Pathological examination

A pathological examination is required to finalize the diagnosis, that is, to remove the diseased ovarian tissue through a puncture biopsy or laparoscopic surgery under the guidance of vaginal ultrasound, and the "culprit" can be identified through pathological examination.