What is Serous Surface Papillary Carcinoma of the Ovary?
Serous surface papillary carcinoma (SSPC) of the ovary is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that originates from the outer layer of the ovary. It most commonly affects postmenopausal women.
Causes of SSPC
The exact cause of SSPC is not well understood, but like other forms of ovarian cancer, it is associated with genetic mutations and hormonal changes, particularly in older women.
Signs and Symptoms
Patients with SSPC may experience the following symptoms:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating or swelling due to the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (a common complication of ovarian cancer)
- A palpable mass in the abdomen
- The cancer may also spread to the tissue lining the abdomen
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic methods are used to identify SSPC:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) to assess overall health and detect any abnormalities.
- Serum Tumour Markers to help detect specific proteins associated with ovarian cancer.
- Imaging Tests such as ultrasonography (USG), CT scans, MRI, and X-rays to determine the tumour’s size, location, and extent. A pelvic exam may also be performed to assess the ovaries, uterus, cervix, and vagina.
- CT Scans are commonly used to detect key features of ovarian cancer, such as fluid buildup in the abdomen, thickening of the abdominal wall, and other areas affected by cancer.
- Tumour Biopsy is often performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
The primary treatment for SSPC is surgical removal of the tumour. Depending on the extent of the cancer, the surgery may involve removing part or all of the affected ovary, as well as nearby structures like the fallopian tubes, uterus, and lymph nodes in the pelvis and abdomen.
After surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy, often using a drug called cisplatin, is administered to target any remaining cancer cells. While some patients respond well to treatment, the overall prognosis for SSPC is generally poor due to the aggressive nature of the cancer.
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