What tests are needed for ovarian cancer screening?
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Ovarian cancer screening requires a reproductive system ultrasound to visually detect whether there are space-occupying lesions in the abdomen and ovarian region. CA125 tumor marker testing is also necessary to determine if local malignancy exists. Additionally, histopathological examination should be performed to identify the specific pathological type and severity of the tumor, providing reliable diagnostic basis for subsequent treatment.
Ovarian cancer screening includes reproductive system ultrasound, tumor marker testing, and pathological histological examination. These screening methods can determine whether a person has ovarian cancer and assess the specific severity of the disease. The details are as follows:
1. Reproductive System Ultrasound
This examination allows for direct visualization of any space-occupying lesions in the abdomen and ovaries. It is advantageous due to its low cost and high safety profile. However, it only serves as an initial screening tool and may easily miss small tumors.
2. Tumor Marker Testing
The most important test is CA125. If the results exceed the normal range, there is a strong suspicion of ovarian abnormalities and a higher likelihood of malignancy, necessitating further evaluation with additional tests.
3. Pathological Histological Examination
This method is the primary means of confirming ovarian cancer. Doctors perform pathological analysis on biopsy tissue samples to precisely identify the tumor's histological type and extent of severity, providing reliable diagnostic support for subsequent treatment.
In general, women who have been sexually active for more than one year are advised to undergo regular ovarian cancer screening at a hospital annually to facilitate early detection of the disease.
