While ovarian cancer and cysts develop in the same organ and share similar symptoms, they are not the same condition. Many individuals worry about the worst-case scenario when they feel this sort of discomfort, but knowledge is the first step toward peace of mind. Learning how to spot the key differences can help you make informed decisions about your overall health.
Ovarian cancer starts when abnormal cells in the ovaries or fallopian tubes grow out of control and form a solid tumor. Unlike ovarian cysts, these cancerous tumors do not disappear on their own. If a patient does not receive treatment, the cancer can spread to other areas of their body.
In the early stages, this disease causes very mild symptoms that are easy to miss. As the cancer advances, the signs become more consistent and severe. Early detection makes a major difference in the treatment outcome.
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside an ovary. Most of these sacs form as a normal part of the monthly menstrual cycle. These are called functional cysts. They are common, benign, and usually resolve on their own within a few months without treatment.
However, some ovarian cysts grow quite large, break open, or twist the ovary. These events can trigger sudden, sharp pain in the pelvis. Other cysts might stem from health conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Depending on the size and type of the cyst, a medical professional may recommend simple monitoring, hormonal birth control, or surgical removal. Regular checkups help track these growths to ensure they do not cause long-term discomfort.
Many symptoms are common to benign cysts and malignant tumors. This overlap makes it hard to identify the exact cause without medical tests. Shared signs and symptoms include:
Because these symptoms can also occur with common digestive issues, the medical team will closely examine how long the patient’s symptoms last. It is easy to mistake a chronic, severe health issue for a simple stomach ache.
While the symptoms feel similar, several key clues help separate these two conditions. It is important to be able to recognize the difference between ovarian cancer and cysts as soon as unusual symptoms start. Active awareness can save lives.
The first clue is how long the symptoms last. Cysts usually cause temporary pain that comes and goes with the patient’s menstrual cycle. In most cases, these symptoms stop once the cyst shrinks. In contrast, ovarian cancer symptoms are persistent, occur almost daily, and gradually get worse over several weeks and months.
The second clue is the physical structure of the growth. On an ultrasound scan, a benign cyst usually looks like a simple, clear bubble of fluid. A cancerous tumor contains solid parts, thick walls, or complex shapes.
Age and medical history are also factors to consider. Benign ovarian cysts are common in patients who still menstruate regularly or have been diagnosed with conditions like PCOS. Meanwhile, ovarian cancer is more common in older women, those with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or those with specific genetic mutations.
A medical examination is the only way to find the underlying cause of pelvic pain. The process begins with a physical exam and a review of medical history. The doctor will then use a transvaginal ultrasound to get a clear picture of the ovaries.
Sometimes, the doctor will order a blood test to check for a protein called CA-125. High levels of this protein can point to cancer. That said, benign cysts caused by endometriosis can also raise CA-125 levels. Regardless, if the ultrasound images look suspicious, the oncologist will typically recommend surgical removal as the next step. A biopsy can accurately confirm the difference between ovarian cancer and cysts.
Do not ignore changes in your body. While cysts are much more common than cancer, an early visit with an experienced medical professional can protect your health and bring peace of mind. If you are experiencing ongoing pelvic pressure or bloating, reach out to Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center in Marlton to discuss your symptoms or to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://lindenbergcancer.com or call Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center at (856) 475-0876 for an appointment in our Marlton office.
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