Are ovarian tumors serious?
Dec 12, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Dahai
Introduction
How serious is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian tumors are a relatively common type of cancer today. After onset, patients often experience abnormal pain in the ovarian region; palpation may reveal a noticeably enlarged mass. Additional symptoms may include menstrual irregularities and abdominal enlargement compared to baseline. This condition is considered relatively serious; however, it is treatable.
Ovarian tumors are a relatively common type of cancer among women today. Following onset, patients often experience abnormal pain in the ovarian region; palpation may reveal a sizable mass, and they may also suffer from menstrual irregularities and noticeable abdominal enlargement—indicating a relatively serious condition. However, this disease is treatable, and patients should avoid excessive anxiety or tension, maintaining instead a positive and relaxed mindset.
Malignant ovarian tumors typically grow rapidly, forming irregular, immobile masses, often accompanied by ascites. Systemic symptoms—including fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite—may develop rapidly. Functional ovarian tumors, such as granulosa cell tumors, secrete large amounts of estrogen, potentially causing precocious puberty. Affected girls exhibit accelerated development of secondary sexual characteristics—including body shape, breast development, and external genitalia—as well as early menarche without ovulation. Skeletal maturation may advance beyond normal limits. Urinary estrogen levels increase significantly, and gonadotropin levels also rise abnormally to adult levels.
Moderately sized ovarian masses with long pedicles—including retention cysts—may undergo torsion of both the tumor and its pedicle. Once torsion occurs, hemorrhage and necrosis can follow, presenting clinically as acute abdomen. Affected children may experience abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. Physical examination reveals abdominal muscle rigidity and marked tenderness over the tumor site, often accompanied by fever and leukocytosis. Larger tumors may compress adjacent organs, leading to urinary or bowel dysfunction.
What Symptoms Are Associated with Ovarian Cysts?
1. Abdominal Pain
In women with ovarian cysts, the cyst gradually enlarges, eventually causing pressure or a sensation of heaviness, resulting in abdominal pain. Pain may intensify significantly during intercourse or menstruation (dysmenorrhea).
2. Menstrual Irregularities
Menstrual disturbances are a hallmark symptom of ovarian cysts. Manifestations vary among individuals: some experience prolonged menses, others increased menstrual flow or shortened cycles; dysmenorrhea is commonly reported.
3. Abdominal Enlargement
As the cyst enlarges progressively, women may perceive an abdominal mass and notice visible abdominal distension or thickening of the waistline.
4. Premature Aging
The ovaries play a pivotal role in female beauty and vitality. Without healthy ovarian function, women may lose their youthful appearance. Ovarian cysts can thus contribute to premature aging.[2]
Small ovarian masses are often asymptomatic. Occasionally, patients report a sensation of heaviness or dull ache in the lower abdomen on the affected side. A smooth, non-tender, cystic abdominal mass may be readily palpated. Most benign tumors are attached to the fallopian tube via a long, slender pedicle. Due to minimal adhesions with surrounding tissues, these masses are highly mobile—often easily displaced from the lower abdomen to the upper abdomen.
The above provides an overview of the severity of ovarian tumors. We hope this information is helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!
