Does a CT scan detect ovarian cancer? Even with all of the advancements we’ve made in cancer research, ovarian cancer remains difficult to diagnose in its early stages. It’s even earned the nickname the “silent killer” due to the lack of symptoms women present until it is well-advanced with lower chances of remission.
In this blog, we’ll discuss different tests doctors use to diagnose ovarian cancer and when a CT scan may be helpful since a combination of tests and procedures is usually necessary to confirm an ovarian cancer diagnosis.
Key Takeaways
- It’s hard to detect ovarian cancer early because it presents vague, common symptoms.
- CT scans can help identify larger ovarian masses, cancer spread, or suspicious findings but aren’t definitive for small tumors.
- Diagnosing ovarian cancer requires a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and a biopsy.
Does a CT Scan Detect Ovarian Cancer?
A CT scan may be one of the first imaging tools your healthcare provider uses if you’re having symptoms like abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, or unusual digestive issues that suggest the possibility of ovarian cancer. A computed tomography (CT) scan produces cross-sectional images of the body with X-rays to help detect abnormalities in your pelvis and abdomen. Large ovarian masses, fluid buildup (ascites), or other signs that point toward cancer are all detectable by CT scan, making it a helpful tool for diagnosis.
While a CT scan can be helpful, it also has limitations, such as being unable to detect tumors smaller than a certain size. They’re better utilized to detect larger masses or determine if cancer has spread beyond the patient’s ovaries. CT scans can help define what stage cancer is in and guide treatment planning when it shows enlarged lymph nodes or metastasis to other organs like your liver and lungs.
What Other Tests Are Used for Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis?
Since oncologists can’t rely on CT scans alone to diagnose ovarian cancer, they use them along with other tests.
Pelvic Ultrasound
One of those other tests is called a pelvic ultrasound. It’s often the first test doctors turn to when they suspect ovarian cancer because it can distinguish between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses in your ovaries.
The waves that ultrasound technology uses to create images offer a closer look at any unusual ovarian growths and help physicians determine whether further testing is needed.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are also used to detect ovarian cancer, specifically one for the cancer antigen 125 (CA 125). Although high levels of CA 125 alone can’t give a definitive diagnosis, it can be an indicator since CA 125 levels are often higher in women with ovarian cancer. When paired with imaging results, this blood test helps doctors assess the likelihood of cancer.
Biopsy
Ultimately, the only way to confirm ovarian cancer is with a biopsy. When performing a biopsy, doctors will surgically remove a small tissue sample from the patient’s suspected tumor and examine it microscopically for signs of cancer cells. If they determine cancer is present during the surgery, they’re also able to tell if it’s in the first, second, third, or fourth stage.
- Stage 1: Confined to the ovaries
- Stage 2: Spread outside the ovaries but still within the pelvis
- Stage 3: Spread to the abdomen
- Stage 4: Spread to the liver or other organs outside the pelvis
Why Is Early Detection Difficult?
There are certain risk factors that put women at risk of having ovarian cancer. If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, mutations in breast cancer genes 1 (BRCA1) or 2 (BRCA2), or a history of endometriosis, you have a higher chance. And because symptoms like bloating or digestive issues are often mistaken for less severe conditions, diagnosis is frequently delayed until the cancer has reached advanced stages.
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If you’re concerned about an ovarian cancer diagnosis, our compassionate team of oncologists is here for you! Whether you’re looking for testing, treatment, or recovery resources, we would love to be a part of your healing and restoration journey. Get in touch today to get the support you need.