Dysgerminoma (ovary) – Symptoms, Treatment & Support

What is dysgerminoma (ovary)?

Dysgerminoma is the most common type of germ cell tumour of the ovary. Germ cell tumours are male and female gametes, that is, eggs and sperm that combine to form a zygote, which later divides and grows to form a fetus.

Disease Epidemiology

It is a very rare tumour, accounting for only 1% of ovarian cancers. It is more common in young women and rarely occurs after menopause. Ovarian dysgerminoma is a malignant tumour, but it responds well to treatment. In most cases, it affects one ovary, but in 10% of cases, it develops in both ovaries.

Signs and symptoms

A patient with an ovarian dysgerminoma does not show specific signs and symptoms. Common signs and symptoms are;

• A palpable (felt able) mass in the abdomen or pelvis. The pelvis is a part of the body between the abdomen and thighs
• Pain in the abdomen
• Feeling of fullness or heaviness at the pelvic region
• Frequent urination (repetitive and urgent urge to urinate more than normal)
• Pain during urination
• Feeling of fullness after a few mouths full

Diagnosis

The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to diagnose dysgerminoma ovary. These are;

• Pregnancy tests and tests for sexually transmitted diseases
• Imaging techniques like ultrasonography (USG) abdomen and pelvis to detect the abdominal mass its size and extent.
• Other diagnostic tests are Beta-hCG, Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), inhibin And B, Cancer antigen-125 (CA-125) and nuclear protein test.
• Laparoscopy ( an invasive procedure which allows the doctor to see the internal organs of the abdomen to detect any pathology)

Treatment

The choice of the right treatment option depends on the patient’s desire to maintain fertility and the size and extent of the tumour. Treatment options are surgical, which include surgical removal of the affected ovary, fallopian tube, and affected abdominal lymph nodes, depending on the extent and size of the tumour, while also considering fertility preservation. Other treatment options are radiation therapy and chemotherapy. It responds well to radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

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What Support can we Give for Dysgerminoma?

Dysgerminoma 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 Dysgerminoma, 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.