What is Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Ovary?
Clear Cell Carcinoma of the ovary is a type of ovarian cancer that usually develops in younger women. It usually develops in women with endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue lining the walls of the uterus begins to grow in other parts of the body, most commonly the ovaries and fallopian tubes. The overall five-year survival rate is 66%. It tends to metastasize to the lymph nodes of the body. Metastasis is the spread of a tumour from its site of origin to other parts of the body.What are ovaries?
The ovaries are an important part of the human reproductive system. The ovaries are small glands located on either side of the uterus through a tubular structure called the fallopian tubes. The ovaries produce eggs and hormones in females. These eggs are used for producing offspring.Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause; however, certain hereditary and genetic mutations are believed to be responsible for the development of clear cell carcinoma of the ovary. Having no children (nulliparity), the onset of the first menstruation at a very young age, late menopause, infertility, and a family history of ovarian cancer in the first-degree relative are all risk factors that can make a person vulnerable to developing cystadenocarcinoma. It has also been observed that it often develops in women with endometriosis.Disease Epidemiology
In North America, it accounts for approximately 10-12% of all types of cancers of the ovary. It is more common in Asian people as compared to white and blacks.Signs and symptoms
A person with clear cell carcinoma of the ovary may suffer from the following signs and symptoms.- Pain or discomfort in the right lower part of the abdomen
- Nausea
- Decrease in the appetite
- Irregular menstruations
- Swelling or lump in the abdomen or pelvic region
- Pain, pressure, or feeling of fullness in the abdomen(belly)
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.
Treatment
Surgery is the most common and effective treatment for clear cell carcinoma of the ovary. Unilateral Salpingoophorectomy is the surgical procedure in which the affected ovary is removed along with its fallopian tube.What Support can we Give for Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Ovary?
Clear Cell Carcinoma 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 Clear Cell Carcinoma 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:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
