There are several different types of ovarian cancer. However, there exist three major categorise of ovarian tumors, designated by where they form in the ovary.
- EPITHELIAL TUMORS - Up to 90% of ovarian cancers develop in the epithelium, the thin layer of tissue that lines the ovaries.
- GERM CELL TUMORS - Originate from cells that are destined to form eggs within the ovaries. Germ cell tumors are rare and account for about 5% of ovarian cancer cases and are mostly diagnosed in women under 30.
- STROMAL TUMORS - Affect women of all ages. These tumors develop in the connective cells that hold the ovaries together.
Ovarian cancer symptoms are often vague and easily confused with other diseases. However, symptoms include:
- Bloating, a feeling of fullness, gas
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
- Nausea, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea
- Abnormal bleeding
- Fatigue, backaches
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Often, no symptoms
