Can pelvic mass cause ovarian cancer?

Pelvic masses do not necessarily cause ovarian cancer, but certain types of pelvic masses do have the risk of becoming cancerous. If an abnormal mass is found, it is particularly important to promptly assess whether it is malignant. After determining the nature of the mass and assessing the risk, taking therapeutic intervention when necessary is the key to reducing the risk of ovarian cancer.

1) Possible causes of pelvic mass

Pelvic mass does not necessarily mean cancer. It has various causes, including physiological or pathological factors:

- Physiological factors: During a woman's menstrual cycle, functional cysts may form on her ovaries, such as corpus luteum cysts or follicular cysts during ovulation. These are normal changes and most of them can disappear on their own.

-Pathological factors: such as chocolate cysts (endometriosis), ovarian tumors (benign and malignant), adnexal inflammatory masses, hydrosalpinx, etc. These pathological masses require further differential diagnosis.

-Genetics and family history: If there is a history of ovarian or breast cancer in the family, there are certain genetic risks (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations) that may make the mass more likely to worsen.

2) How to determine whether a pelvic mass may become cancerous

-Imaging examination: Ultrasound examination is a commonly used method. By observing the size, shape, boundary clarity and internal echo of the mass, the risk of malignancy can be initially identified. If ultrasound finds solid parts, irregular edges or abnormal blood flow signals, vigilance should be increased.

-Tumor marker testing: Indicators such as CA125 and HE4 can assist in evaluating the benign or malignant nature of the mass, but a single test cannot completely confirm the diagnosis.

- Further detailed examinations: such as CT or MRI, can help to clearly determine the location and internal structure of the mass. If necessary, laparoscopic surgery can be performed to obtain a biopsy to clarify the cause.

3) Treatment options for pelvic mass

Treatment options for masses of different nature and risk include the following:

-Observation and regular follow-up: If it is a physiological cyst or a possible benign mass, an ultrasound examination can be performed every 3-6 months according to the doctor's advice.

-Drug treatment: For inflammatory masses, you can try anti-inflammatory antibiotics. Or you can use hormonal drugs (such as oral contraceptives) under the guidance of a doctor to inhibit the growth of cysts.

-Surgery:

1. Conservative surgery such as cystectomy: It is suitable for smaller cysts that are assessed to be benign, and is mainly aimed at preserving organ function.

2. Ovarian resection: If the risk of malignancy is high, lesion resection is sometimes required to prevent spread.

3. Laparoscopic surgery: A minimally invasive option that can more quickly identify the nature of the mass and treat it accordingly.

If you find an abnormal pelvic mass, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible and have a professional doctor perform individualized diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can not only reduce the risk of potential cancer, but also protect the long-term health of female pelvic organs.