Ovarian cancer originating from reproductive cells: Classification, management, prognosis, and further insights
Malignant germ cell ovarian tumors, while rare, are a significant concern for many women. These tumors, which account for approximately X% of ovarian cancer cases, can be fast-growing but often present early and are confined to one ovary. This early detection, coupled with effective treatment, contributes to their relatively high survival rate.
Survival Rates and Prognosis
The survival rates for malignant germ cell ovarians tumors are generally high, especially when diagnosed and treated in early stages. For example, patients with FIGO stage I to III non-gestational ovarian choriocarcinoma, a rare subtype, have favorable 3-year overall survival rates reaching 100%. However, stage IV shows much poorer survival, around 25% at 3 years [1].
Pure non-gestational ovarian choriocarcinoma cases show a 3-year survival rate of about 94%, compared to roughly 50% for mixed tumors [1]. These figures underscore the importance of early detection and appropriate treatment.
Common Types and Risk Factors
Dysgerminoma is the most common type of malignant ovarian germ cell tumor, typically affecting females in their teenage years or 20s. Most germ cell tumors are benign, but approximately 1-2% are malignant [2].
Risk factors for developing ovarian cancer, including germ cell ovarian cancer, include being over the age of 65 years, increased ovulation, existing conditions such as breast cancer, endometriosis, or diabetes, family history of ovarian cancer, and genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome. Turner's syndrome, a genetic condition that affects females, can also increase a person's risk for developing germ cell ovarian cancer [3].
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of a germ cell tumor involves a physical examination, blood tests, ultrasound, CT scan or MRI, and biopsy. Treatment for germ cell ovarian cancer typically includes surgery (ranging from removal of one or both ovaries to hysterectomy depending on spread) followed by chemotherapy, which leads to favorable outcomes in most cases [3].
Chemotherapy can help shrink and kill cancer cells. A type of chemotherapy called PEB, consisting of bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin, may be used to treat germ cell ovarian cancer. Chemotherapy can also cause primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), which is when the ovaries stop releasing eggs and estrogen. POI can be temporary or permanent [4].
Post-Treatment Care
After treatment for germ cell ovarian cancer, people may require regular checkups for several years to check that the cancer has not returned. Germ cell ovarian cancer may spread to other parts of the body without treatment, so it's crucial to monitor patients closely [5].
Symptoms and Prevention
Symptoms of germ cell ovarian cancer may include a swollen abdomen, bleeding from the vagina after menopause, pain or pressure in the pelvis or abdomen, irregular periods, fever or chills, nausea or vomiting, and a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
Combined hormonal birth control pills can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 20% for every 5 years of taking the pill [6]. Removing the fallopian tubes with a procedure called salpingectomy may also help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer [7].
If people have any symptoms of ovarian cancer or germ cell ovarian cancer, they will need to contact a doctor. Treatment for germ cell ovarian cancer has a good outlook overall, with around 90% of cases effectively controlled or cured with treatment [8].
However, it's important to note that treatment may have side effects. For instance, chemotherapy may affect the lungs if people have any treatments that involve high doses of oxygen. People may want to discuss fertility when making a decision with their healthcare team about treatment options [9].
In conclusion, while malignant germ cell ovarian tumors can be a cause for concern, the outlook is generally positive, especially when diagnosed and treated early. Regular checkups, preventative measures, and open communication with healthcare professionals can help ensure the best possible outcomes.
- Women with malignant germ cell ovarian tumors often experience favorable 3-year survival rates, particularly in early stages, highlighting the significance of early detection and effective treatment.
- Fertility may be impacted post-chemotherapy treatment for ovarian cancer, leading to primary ovarian insufficiency (POI).
- Healthcare professionals should discuss fertility concerns with their patients when deciding on treatment options for ovarian cancer.
- The science of medical-conditions related to women's health, like ovarian cancer, is continuously evolving, providing new insights and potential treatments.
- Women can take preventative measures to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, such as long-term use of combined hormonal birth control pills or undergoing a salpingectomy.
