Ovarian cancer can begin in various parts of the ovary. Its types are categorized based on the type of cell where cancer originates. There are roughly 30 types of ovarian cancer. These are broadly categorized into epithelial cell carcinoma, germ cell cancer of the ovary, and stromal cell cancer. Here are three main types of ovarian cancer and its symptoms.
- Epithelial carcinoma of the ovary
This is one of the common categories of ovarian cancer; this type accounts for roughly 85 to 90 percent of total ovarian cancer cases. The subtypes of epithelial ovarian cancer include clear cell, endometrioid, mucinous, and undifferentiated. This form of ovarian cancer begins on the surface of the ovary, known as the epithelium. It is rarely preceded by any symptoms in the initial stages. It is only diagnosed once the disease reaches an advanced stage. Genetic factors are one of the major risks of ovarian cancer. Women who have a parent, sibling, or child with this cancer are at a higher risk. People with a family history of colon and breast cancer are also at a higher risk. - Germ cell cancer of the ovary
This is a rare type of ovarian cancer. It occurs due to the uncontrolled growth of reproductive cells in the ovaries. Women in their teens and twenties are at a higher risk of developing germ cell ovarian cancer. This type of ovarian cancer progresses pretty quickly. In certain cases, the tumors develop HCG or human chorionic gonadotropin. This can result in a false-positive pregnancy test. Although it is rare, it is completely curable. In fact, about 90 percent of the cases have resulted in complete cure along with 100 percent fertility preservation. Common forms of germ cell cancer of the ovary include dysgerminomas, endodermal sinus tumors, and maturing teratomas. - Stromal cell cancer of the ovary
This is the rarest type of ovarian cancer. About one percent of total ovarian cancer cases are stromal cell cancer. This form of cancer begins in the stromal tissue cells. These cells are responsible for producing hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This form of cancer progresses slowly over time. It leads to higher production of any of these hormones. The result can be excessive facial hair growth, acne, and uterine bleeding. Granulosa cell tumors, Sertoli-Leydig tumors, and granulosa-theca tumors fall under this category of ovarian cancer. - Symptoms of ovarian cancer
In most cases, ovarian cancer does not have any symptoms in the early stages. Over time, the following symptoms may become noticeable:
- Low appetite
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Discomfort or pain the pelvis or stomach
- Worsening back pain
- Indigestion
- Fatigue
- Sudden change in the menstrual cycle
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Vaginal bleeding
- Frequent bloating
