Ovarian cancer is a malignant disease of the ovaries that may cause only mild or non-specific symptoms for a considerable period of time. Careful diagnostic evaluation and treatment by a specialist in gynecological oncology are therefore particularly important.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Possible symptoms may include:

• persistent abdominal pressure or bloating
• an increase in abdominal size
• abdominal or pelvic pain
• changes in digestion or bowel habits
• increased urinary frequency
• loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
• new and persistent symptoms without an obvious cause

These symptoms are common and are usually caused by other conditions. However, if they are new or persist over time, they should be evaluated by a gynecologist.

An important part of the diagnostic process is specialized gynecological ultrasound, which allows detailed assessment of the ovaries and pelvic organs. If suspicious findings are identified, further investigations such as tumor markers, CT, or MRI may be required.

Surgery as a Central Part of Treatment

For many patients with ovarian cancer, surgery plays a crucial role. The aim is to accurately assess the extent of the disease and, whenever medically feasible, to remove all visible tumor tissue.

Depending on the extent of the disease, more extensive surgery may be required. The appropriate surgical strategy is determined based on the diagnostic findings and stage of the disease.

In ovarian cancer in particular, the experience of the operating gynecologic oncologist and careful surgical planning are of major importance.

Surgery and Systemic Treatment

Treatment for ovarian cancer often involves a combination of surgery and systemic anti-cancer therapy. Depending on the type and extent of the disease, medical treatment may be given before or after surgery.

The histological and molecular characteristics of the tumor also play an important role in further treatment planning. Depending on the findings, targeted therapies or other modern systemic treatments may be considered in addition to chemotherapy.

Treatment Within a Gynecological Oncology Team

As a specialist in gynecological oncology, Dr. Arsenakis has extensive surgical experience in the treatment of complex gynecological conditions.

Findings and treatment strategies can be discussed during the weekly Onco-Meeting at IASO in Athens within a team of specialist gynecologic oncologists. The aim is to coordinate and plan the appropriate surgical and systemic treatment.

In ovarian cancer, specialist diagnostics, carefully planned surgery, and coordinated oncological treatment are essential.