Eblast
Topics: Diagnosing Ovarian Cancer
Élan MedSpa Open House Reminder
New
research shows that it might be possible to diagnose ovarian cancer
earlier by ordering certain tests for a patient experiencing
non-specific symptoms.
Ovarian cancer is the
No. 4 cause of cancer death in U.S. women, according to the American
Cancer Society (ACS).
While ovarian cancer
rates have been dropping since 1991, the disease remains the seventh
most common cancer among American women (not counting skin cancer),
and the fourth cause of cancer death in U.S. women according to the
American Cancer Society (ACS). Unfortunately, it is estimated that
75% to 80% of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage.
Often, symptoms of
ovarian cancer are subtle or even silent. However, many women with
this cancer report symptoms months earlier even with early-stage
cancer. Persistent symptoms can include:
-
Discomfort or cramping in the stomach or abdomen
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Pelvic pressure or discomfort in the lower back
-
Gastrointestinal problems (such as persistent bloating or intestinal
gas that isn't relieved by home treatments)
-
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
-
Change in bowel or bladder habits
-
Nausea, lack of appetite, drop in energy level
Those symptoms may
not be associated with any ovarian disease, but may be worth an
evaluation: first, a pelvic exam, followed by a pelvic ultrasound,
and possibly a Ca-125 blood test. CA 125, a specific cancer
screening test, is associated with a variety of noncancerous and
common conditions including pelvic inflammatory disease,
endometriosis, pregnancy, menstruation, and even fibroids. A normal
blood level alone does not exclude a cancerous condition.
A recent medical
study concludes that pelvic imaging and CA125 testing may lead to an
earlier diagnosis in some patients, although the sensitivity of
these tests for early stage disease is not high.
Elan Medspa’s Fall
Open House is this Thursday October 13th from 5PM to 8PM
at Dr. Birken’s office. Many skin pharmaceutical reps will be
available for consultation with discounts for purchased products.
Also, learn about optical laser, infrared, and intense pulse light
treatments including the new Titan, a non-invasive facial lift.
Refreshments, snacks, and door prizes!
To RSVP, please
contact Liz Birken at 832-287-6647 or email at
ebirken@houston.rr.com
Randy Birken, MD
www.gynfo.com
