What is an Endodermal Sinus Tumour of the ovary?
Endodermal Sinus Tumour of the Ovary is a tumour of the ovarian germ cells, which accounts for approximately 20-25% of all malignant (cancerous) ovarian germ cell tumours. It can develop in women between the ages of 17 and 75. The peak incidence occurs in middle age. It is a high-grade tumour that grows rapidly and can spread to other parts of the body.What is Germ cell ovarian cancer?
Germ cell ovarian cancer is cancer in which benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) growths are developed in the germ cells (eggs) of the female’s ovaries. Germ cell ovarian cancer mostly develops in teenage girls and younger women.What are ovaries?
Ovaries are part of the female reproductive system. There are two ovaries in the female reproductive system which are attached by the fallopian tubes to the uterus. In the ovaries, eggs are formed and they secrete female hormones.Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause; However, Certain hereditary and genetic mutations (faulty alterations in the genes) are believed to be responsible for the development of the endodermal sinus tumour of the ovary.Signs and symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- Swelling or lump in the abdomen or pelvic region
- Rapidly enlarging mass or tumour
- Pain, pressure or feeling of fullness in the abdomen(belly)
- Inter-menstrual (Irregular vaginal bleeding between two menstrual cycles) or post-menopausal vaginal bleeding.
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 ovarian endodermal sinus tumours of the ovary. Unilateral Salpingoophorectomy is the surgical procedure in which the affected ovary is removed along with its fallopian tube. In advanced metastatic cases, chemotherapy is the main treatment option.What Support can we Give for Endodermal Sinus Tumour of the Ovary?
Endodermal Sinus Tumour 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 Endodermal Sinus Tumour 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.
