Ovarian Cancer Treatment in Delhi, India

Ovarian cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the ovaries, the part of the female body that produces eggs. The cells divide and grow in an uncontrolled manner causing a malignant ovarian tumour. The type of cancer that begins in the ovaries (female reproductive glands) is known as Ovarian Cancer. Any abnormal growth of a tissue in the ovaries leads to ovarian cancer and because it starts silently, this disease is often diagnosed in its later stages. Though ovarian cancer can occur at any age, ovarian cancer specialists in India state that older women who are above 60 years of age are at a higher risk. If someone has reasons to believe they may have ovarian cancer, it is extremely important to consult an experienced oncologist at a reputable ovarian cancer hospital to seek the best possible treatment.

The early signs of ovarian cancer often go unnoticed. In the early stages, ovarian cancer has little or no symptoms. Ovarian cancer symptoms are often overlooked as they are similar to other illnesses that are common and can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. However, if ovarian cancer symptoms repeatedly come and go, getting professional help should be considered. The fallopian tube cancer symptoms include:

• Pressure, pain and bloating in the abdominal region
• Difficulty eating and abnormal fullness after every meal
• Increased urination
• Abnormal pain during sex
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Severe back pain
• Changes in the menstrual cycle and constipation
• Heartburn and upset stomach
• Fatigue

Though these ovarian cancer symptoms may occur because of any other condition in the body, if someone has had one or more of these for a significant period, it is advisable to consult a cancer specialist. These ovarian cancer symptoms might not be severe in the initial stage but as the ovarian tumour symptoms grow and the cancer spreads outside of the ovaries, the pain can become severe. Like any other cancer, ovarian cancer, if detected in later stages, is hard to treat.

Understanding the causes of ovarian cancer remains an ongoing challenge. While no singular cause has been pinpointed, several risk factors have been identified, including a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, advancing age, obesity, and specific genetic mutations. At Max Healthcare, a trusted ovarian cancer hospital in India, we are committed to ongoing research to further elucidate the underlying causes of this disease.

In general, the division and multiplication of cells in an unregulated way in the ovaries causes ovarian cancer. Though the root cause behind this cancer type is still unknown, there are many risk factors that increase the chance of developing this disease, which are probed by an ovarian cancer doctor. These include:

• Family history – If someone in the family has had ovarian or breast cancer in the past, the risk increases.
• Majority of ovarian cancer cases are registered for women over 65
• If someone has never been pregnant/unexplained infertility
• Early menstruation and late menopause
• Had been through colorectal, uterine cancer and breast cancer
• Hormone replacement therapy increases the chances of developing ovarian cancer
• Overweight and obesity can also increase the risk

Differentiated by the kind and type of cells in which cancer starts, there are three main types: 

1. Epithelial Ovarian Tumours – Epithelial Tumours develop from the cells that cover the surface of the fallopian tube or the ovary.
2. Germ cell Ovarian Tumours – These are derived from the ova or egg producing cells and most of them are not even cancerous.
3. Cord-stromal Cell Ovarian Tumours – Termed as a rare class of ovarian tumours, these are derived from the connective tissue that produce female hormones and hold the ovary together.

Patients can consult an ovarian cancer specialist to learn more about the types of ovarian cancer.

Diagnosing ovarian cancer requires a combination of medical evaluation, imaging tests, and laboratory assessments. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. At Max Healthcare, one of the best hospitals for ovarian cancer treatment in India, we employ advanced diagnostic techniques to ensure precise ovarian cancer diagnosis. Here's an overview of the key components involved in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer:

Medical History and Physical Examination

Ovarian cancer doctors generally start the diagnosis by taking a detailed medical history, including any symptoms you've been experiencing and your family history of cancer. A thorough physical examination is conducted, focused on the abdomen and pelvis, to check for any abnormalities, such as palpable masses or swelling.

Pelvic Ultrasound

Pelvic ultrasound, often performed as a transvaginal ultrasound, is a crucial imaging test to diagnose ovarian cancer. It uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries and surrounding structures. This test helps identify the size, shape, and characteristics of ovarian masses or tumours. It can differentiate between benign ovarian cysts and potential cancerous growths.

Blood Tests

Blood tests, particularly the CA-125 blood test, are commonly used in the diagnosis and monitoring of ovarian cancer. CA-125 is a protein that can be elevated in the blood of some women with ovarian cancer. However, it's important to note that CA-125 levels can also be elevated due to other conditions, so this test is not conclusive on its own.

Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

CT Scan or MRI scans may be performed to evaluate the extent of the cancer and to check for any signs of cancer spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes. These imaging studies provide more detailed information about the size and location of tumours and help with cancer staging.

Biopsy

A biopsy is the definitive method for confirming ovarian cancer. During a biopsy, a small tissue sample is taken from the suspected ovarian tumour for examination under a microscope. Depending on the circumstances, the biopsy may be obtained through surgery (surgical biopsy) or a less invasive procedure such as a fine-needle aspiration or core biopsy guided by imaging.

Ascites Analysis

If there is a buildup of fluid in the abdomen (ascites), a sample of this fluid may be collected and analysed to detect cancer cells

Once ovarian cancer is confirmed, additional imaging tests, such as chest X-rays, may be performed to assess if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, aiding in the ovarian cancer staging.

It's important to emphasise that the diagnosis of ovarian cancer should be made by an experienced oncologist for ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer can be challenging to diagnose due to its subtle symptoms and non-specific findings on imaging tests. 

We, at Max Healthcare, follow a multidisciplinary approach involving gynaecologists, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists to provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual patient's needs. Noticing early signs of ovarian cancer and prompt treatment significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes for women with ovarian cancer.

If you experience any of the early signs of ovarian cancer or possess risk factors such as a family history of ovarian cancer, it is imperative to promptly consult with a specialist. At Max Healthcare, our dedicated experts are ready to provide compassionate care and the latest treatments, maximising your chances of a successful recovery.

When it comes to ovarian cancer, timely intervention can make all the difference. Contact Max Healthcare, the best ovarian cancer hospital in India, to schedule a consultation with an experienced ovarian cancer specialist.

Once the patient is through with the several ovarian cancer diagnosis tests, the specialist may recommend one or more ovarian cancer treatment options depending on the stage. The main ovarian cancer treatment options include:

Ovarian Cancer Surgery

Most ovarian cancers can be treated by ovarian cancer surgery performed by ovarian cancer surgeons. The extent of ovarian cancer surgery required usually depends on how far cancer has spread and also on the general health of the patient. In many cases, the disease is treatable even without the removal of the uterus and ovaries. The main goal of the ovarian cancer surgery is to remove the cancer completely from the body, which is carried out by a skilled ovarian cancer surgeon. 

Chemotherapy

When the cancer has metastasized in other parts of the body, the patient must undergo chemotherapy. It is a systematic treatment in which the drugs are given in a way that they reach all parts of the body. Most of the time, the drugs are either injected into a vein, through a thin tube into the abdominal cavity or by mouth.

HormoneTherapy

Hormone-blocking drugs are used to fight cancer in Hormone Therapy. This treatment option is helpful in treating ovarian stromal tumours.

TargetedTherapy

Relatively a new treatment type, targeted therapy uses drugs that directly attack the cancer cells while causing less harm to the normal cells.

RadiationTherapy

The use of high-energy particles or X-rays to kill cancer cells is known as Radiation Therapy. However, Radiation Therapy is employed parallelly with chemotherapy or when a patient does not respond to other treatment options.

At Max Hospital, we have the best ovarian cancer specialists in India who specialise in treating ovarian cancer with surgery, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Completing ovarian cancer treatment is no doubt stressful. However, in many cases, the patient starts worrying about the recurrence of the cancer and profoundly notices every small pain in the body. Furthermore, it takes a few months to settle with the idea of completing the treatment and start living a normal life like before.

The leading ovarian cancer treatment hospital in India has listed a few things that can help every survivor recover fast and lead a better life –

• Save energy and use it on things that are important
• Don’t push your body too hard to finish any task
• Seek help from friends and family members
• Incorporate a healthy lifestyle
• Keep away from stress and think of ways in which you can reduce it
• Create the perfect balance between being active and resting
• Be vocal about how you feel to the people around you
• Try not to rush things and set a goal for your life

Once the necessary treatment is completed, it is vital to visit your treating doctor for all the follow-up appointments. During these visits, the doctor will watch your progress closely by performing various exams and asking you several questions. Remember, every treatment has its own set of side-effects that last for a few weeks to months and may vary for everyone. Give your doctor a clear idea about your condition and side-effects that you may be experiencing.

Max Healthcare recognizes the significance of affordable healthcare. We are committed to providing accessible ovarian cancer treatment without compromising quality. That said, the average ovarian cancer treatment cost in India can vary based on cancer type, stage, treatment approach, and individual patient needs. Book an appointment with some of the best ovarian cancer doctors in India, and we will guide you at every step of the way.

Q: What is ovarian cancer, and what are its causes?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the ovaries. The exact cause is not fully understood, but risk factors include genetics, family history, age, and certain gene mutations.

Q: What are the early signs of ovarian cancer?

Early signs of ovarian cancer may include abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, changes in bowel habits, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss. However, these symptoms can be non-specific and mimic other conditions.

Q: How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?

Ovarian cancer is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, pelvic ultrasound, blood tests (such as CA-125), imaging (CT or MRI), and often a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Q: What are the common types of ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer can be classified into several types, including epithelial ovarian cancer, stromal ovarian cancer, and germ cell ovarian cancer, each with different characteristics and treatment approaches.

Q: What is the treatment for ovarian cancer?

Treatment options for ovarian cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, and, in some cases, radiation therapy. The choice of treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as individual patient factors.

Q: What is the cost of ovarian cancer treatment in India?

The cost of ovarian cancer treatment can vary widely depending on the stage of cancer, the type of treatment, and the hospital. Max Healthcare, for example, offers comprehensive ovarian cancer treatment with a focus on affordability and quality care.

Q: Can ovarian cancer be prevented?

While it's not always preventable, some risk reduction strategies include knowing your family history, considering genetic testing, and discussing preventive measures with your healthcare provider.

Q: Is there a screening test for ovarian cancer?

No standard screening test exists for ovarian cancer for the general population. CA-125 blood tests and pelvic ultrasounds are sometimes used for high-risk individuals or those with symptoms.

Q: What is the survival rate for ovarian cancer?

Survival rates for ovarian cancer vary depending on the stage at diagnosis. Early detection improves survival rates significantly. It's important to consult with a healthcare specialist for personalised prognosis and treatment options.

Q: Are there support services available for ovarian cancer patients?

Yes, ovarian cancer patients can access support services such as counselling, support groups, and patient advocacy organisations. Max Healthcare and other reputable cancer treatment centres often offer comprehensive support programs to help patients and their families cope with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer.

Reviewed By Dr. Alka Dahiya, Associate Consultant, Cancer Care / Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Gynecologic Oncology, Robotic Surgery, Breast Cancer on 7 June 2024.