Ovarian Cancer
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Coastal Hematology & Oncology Center
Jessica Taff, MD
Oncologist & Hematologist located in Toms River, NJ & Forked River, NJ
Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer in women, but it accounts for more deaths than any other type of reproductive cancer. At Coastal Hematology & Oncology Center in Toms River and Forked River, New Jersey, Jessica Taff, MD, serves as a resource for area women who require diagnostic and treatment services for ovarian cancer. Booking an appointment with Dr. Taff is as simple as a phone call or using the online scheduling tool.
Ovarian Cancer Q & A
What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a disease characterized by abnormal cellular development on the inner or outer portion of a woman’s ovaries as well as in adjacent tissues. Like all forms of cancer, ovarian cancer involves uncontrolled cell growth that interferes with normal function.
All of the cells in your body divide to form new cells. This is how the body renews itself, and the process works to promote healthy organ and tissue function. When cancer is present, cells begin to multiply at an abnormally fast rate and place pressure on affected organs and tissues.
How serious is ovarian cancer?
Approximately one out of every 78 women will receive a diagnosis of ovarian cancer at some point. For those who receive a diagnosis in the earliest stages, the chance of survival at five years beyond diagnosis is approximately 90%.
However, women who are diagnosed in the later stages of the disease have a more challenging journey ahead. They need to aggressively pursue treatment and fight the disease in partnership with a skilled oncologist like Dr. Taff.
How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
Ovarian cancer does not present clear symptoms in the early stages. It cannot be detected during routine pelvic exams, and there is no single test that detects signs of the disease. Monitoring for high-risk patients with a family history or prior diagnosis is key. Symptoms in the later stages include abdominal pain, swelling, unexplained weight loss, and changes in bowel habits.
If your doctor detects abnormalities in your pelvic region, there are tests that can detect ovarian cancer. Transvaginal ultrasound is one option, and it uses sound waves to create imaging of the interior of your reproductive organs.
Pelvic and abdominal CT scans or MRI scans can show signs of tumor development. Blood testing can look for biomarkers that indicate ovarian cancer. If tumors are present, a biopsy collects a sample of cells for microscopic evaluation.
If you’re in need of a diagnostic evaluation for ovarian or any other form of reproductive cancer, call Coastal Hematology & Oncology Center today to schedule an appointment. Online booking is also available, making it easy to book your visit from the comfort of home at any time.
