What is Choriocarcinoma of the Ovary?
Cancer known as choriocarcinoma of the ovary is made up of trophoblastic malignant cells and secretes the hormone known as human chorionic gonadotropin, which is typically made during pregnancy. It is a high-grade malignant tumour that invades the local and deep structures in and around the ovary tumour. It also tends to spread from its point of origin to distant parts of the body via lymphatic and blood vessels.
Disease Causes
Choriocarcinoma of the ovary is a rare type of cancer that might be gestational (related to pregnancy) or non-gestational or germ-cell ovarian choriocarcinoma. The gestational type of ovarian choriocarcinoma arises from the leftover metastatic pregnancy cells of the uterus or develops as a result of ovarian pregnancy. Non-gestational choriocarcinoma of the ovary arises from the primordial germ cells of the ovary with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, pain in the abdomen, and irregular menstruation.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain in the abdomen
- Irregular menstruation
- Heavy bleeding from the vagina
- A mass or lump in the abdomen
- If the tumour spreads to the lungs it can produce symptoms of chest pain, cough, and difficulty in breathing.
Diagnosis
Following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make the diagnosis. These are
- Complete blood count ( CBC)
- Serum tumour markers
- Imaging techniques like ultrasonography (USG), CT-scan, MRI, and X-Ray to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Pelvic examination through per-speculum examination of the vagina, cervix, and ovaries. A speculum is a gynecological instrument used to visualize the vaginal wall, cervix, uterus, and ovaries to detect any abnormality.
- CA-125
- Serum B-HCG levels
- Serum alpha-fetoprotein levels (AFP)
Treatment
Surgical removal of the tumour is the first-line treatment for localized ovarian tumours. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy is the treatment option for metastatic cases of ovarian choriocarcinoma.
What Support can we Give for Choriocarcinoma of the Ovary?
Choriocarcinoma of the Ovary is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Choriocarcinoma of the Ovary, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
