Can Abdominal Ultrasound Diagnose Ovarian Cancer Effectively?

Diagnosis of ovarian cancer?

Hello doctor, I previously inquired about discomfort in my left lower abdomen and had an abdominal ultrasound, but the doctor said there were no issues (no pelvic examination).
Since ovarian cancer is known as a silent killer, I would like to ask if an abdominal ultrasound can confirm a diagnosis of ovarian cancer, or if further tests are needed.
Since mid-last month, I have been feeling a dull ache in my left lower abdomen, but my menstrual cycle is normal, with no abnormal bleeding or discharge.

Fuwuyegirl, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/17

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The abdominal ultrasound for the ovarian tumor can detect any abnormalities.
Since the abdominal ultrasound was performed and the doctor said there are no issues, you can rest assured.
Dr.
Lü Li-Cheng from Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/11/17

More Info

Abdominal ultrasound is a commonly used imaging technique in the evaluation of various abdominal and pelvic conditions, including ovarian cancer. However, it is important to understand its limitations and the context in which it is used.

Firstly, abdominal ultrasound can be effective in identifying certain abnormalities in the ovaries, such as cysts or masses. If an ovarian tumor is present, it may be visualized during the ultrasound examination. However, the sensitivity of abdominal ultrasound for detecting ovarian cancer is not perfect. In many cases, small tumors or early-stage cancers may not be detected, especially if they do not present with significant structural changes that can be visualized on ultrasound.

In your case, since you have experienced discomfort in the lower left abdomen but have had an abdominal ultrasound that showed no abnormalities, it is reassuring but not definitive. The absence of findings on an abdominal ultrasound does not completely rule out the possibility of ovarian cancer, particularly if the tumor is small or if there are other subtle changes that may not be easily detected through this method.

For a more comprehensive evaluation, especially if there is a clinical suspicion of ovarian cancer, additional diagnostic tests may be warranted. One such test is a transvaginal ultrasound, which is often more sensitive than abdominal ultrasound for evaluating the ovaries and can provide a clearer view of any potential abnormalities. This method allows for a closer examination of the ovaries and can help identify small masses that might be missed on an abdominal ultrasound.

Moreover, if there are ongoing symptoms or concerns, further investigations may include blood tests for tumor markers, such as CA-125, which can be elevated in cases of ovarian cancer, although it is not specific and can be elevated in other conditions as well. In some cases, a CT scan or MRI may be recommended to provide a more detailed view of the pelvic organs and assess for any signs of cancer spread.

It is also essential to consider the overall clinical picture, including your medical history, family history of ovarian or breast cancer, and any other risk factors you may have. If there is a strong family history or genetic predisposition, more aggressive surveillance or preventive measures may be discussed with your healthcare provider.

In summary, while abdominal ultrasound is a useful tool in the initial assessment of ovarian conditions, it is not definitive for diagnosing ovarian cancer. If there are ongoing symptoms or concerns, further evaluation with transvaginal ultrasound, blood tests, or advanced imaging may be necessary. Always consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and the most appropriate next steps in your evaluation and care.

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