Being diagnosed with ovarian cancer metastasis can only add to the fears you may have after learning that you have ovarian cancer. While there is no doubt that prescence of metastasis is a serious situation, it is important to understand exactly what is happening, and what can be done to correct the situation.
Ovarian cancer metastasis is a situation in which an ovarian tumor has been diagnosed as being malignant. In addition, there is evidence that the cancer has already begun to spread to other organs in the body. This means that not only are the ovaries in danger, but also other vital systems around your body. When metastasis takes place, your doctors will take steps to find out just how widespread the cancer has become, and what can be done to effectively treat your condition.
There are essentially four ways that ovarian cancer metastasis takes place. The first has to do with direct contact with the tumor itself. In this scenario, the tumor invades nearby organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or Fallopian tubes. While serious, this type of activity can often be identified quickly, which increases the chances of successful treatment.
Another way that the cancer spreads is known as seeding. Essentially, this is shedding cancer cells into the abdominal cavity. These cells can then attach to the liver, colon, or stomach and begin to proliferate. This scattering process makes it possible to infect several different key organs with relatively little effort.
A third process related to ovarian cancer metastasis involves portions of the tumor breaking off and invading the lymphatic system. The collections of cancerous cells are then transported to distant organs, such as the lungs, where new tumors form and grow. This is similar to the fourth process of metastasis, in which the cells travel through the bloodstream to other areas of the body, where they develop into various types of cancer.
Be prepared to undergo treatments for an extended period of time. In addition to surgery, there is also the possibility of the use of radiation and chemotherapy treatments to kill off any lingering cancer cells in your system. Regular bloodwork will be taken, in order to determine if there are indications of cancer somewhere in your body. There is a very good chance you will experience a great deal of pain during the course of the treatments, as well as bouts of fatigue and a wide range of aches and other types of discomfort.
Keep in mind that even if ovarian cancer metastasis has taken place, do not automatically assume that your situation is hopeless. While your chances for survival are certainly lessened once the cancer has begun to spread, there are still treatments that could allow you to enjoy more years, and possibly even bring the cancer under control for an indefinite period of time. Your doctor can help you understand exactly how far the cancer has progressed, as well as provide information on what can be done to fight the disease. From there, you can make decisions about what treatment options to pursue, and how to deal with the reality of the spread of the ovarian cancer to other places around your body.