Ovarian Cancer from Cyst?

Have the dr order a lab test called CA125. 0 to 35 is normal range, above that especially in the hundreds or higher is pretty positive for ovarian cancer. I didn't have a diagnosis of cysts, but that test should tell you for sure

I too do not know what you mean by diagnostic process. When I found my cyst/tumor my doctors went into high gear and got a CA125 test. This test is a tumor marker but it is a very good test to have. You need to encourage your doctor to give you one and then go from there. I am a 18 month survivor and it is important to stay on top of your symptoms. If you don't get the answers you want try another doctor and find you an gynecological oncologist if it turns out to be cancer.

Yes, Barbara, I would be interested to know what other boards you or anyone else is on also. I have stage 4 ovarian cancer and would like to know as much as possible from anyone else out there that does also. I am only 43 and only have a 5% chance to make it for a year. I would think that there are alot of people out there that have been given the same kind of odds and are doing ok. Thanks! Good luck to you all! Keep the positive attitudes!!! Shel

One is at the Johns Hopkins Site - link below

http://pds17.pathology.jhmi.edu/N/N.WEB?EP=N&URL=/MCGI/SEND1 ^WEBUTLTY(199,109)

The link below is to a group we set up so we could chat with each other but since we are all across the world it gets tricky some times.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/steelmagnoliasOVCAsupportgroup

Hi, Live in South Africa - 48 years old - had a malignant ovary removed in February - had started with blood clots November last year in my legs - and tired - put it down to work pressure - hectic tummy cramps for a week and abnormal stool- 2 ultrasounds and chest xrays all okay - on warfarin for the blood clots when the professor had no further explanation asked for a cat scan - (not one of the ultrasounds had picked this up - both done by different radioligists - and they have no explanation why they didn't see it) - and there was the"squatter" - name we gave it - went to gynae he said probably a cyst have it out when I am ready - went in the following week - dr thought all okay as no fluid in the pelvis, no swollen glands etc - 4 days later diagnosis stage 1 - was completely encapulated - no extentions - was told how lucky I was as this is not an easy cancer to find at this stage - went for a 2nd opinion as I had been told no chemo and a CA125 every three months and a 6 monthly check up - 2nd gynae - wanted me straight back in to remove the other ovary - stomache washings and biopsy on fat and glands - I was horrified - he gave me a vaginal and rectal examination - said he thought all was fine but that I must be back in 6 months to have it done - had to do a range of tumour markings every month - I just couldn't go straight back for another op - it was a HUGE stumbling block for me - 2nd opinion oncologist - he said have it done then you know all okay - eventually went 8 weeks ago to my gynae as I am comfortable with him - 2nd ovary had attached itself to the colon and had internal bleeding - so good decision - once again very fortunate - now tumour markings every 3 months and 6 monthly check ups with ultrasounds and chest xrays - my tumour markings have been low from the beginning so personally I think a cat scan is the answer - ultrasounds have been useless with me - I do believe to stay positive and do what is right for you - it has taken me a long time to get back to being myself this time round as I had terrible hot flushes immediately and mood swings - went back to gym two weeks ago and not had any further hot flushes or moods - just have to try and loose weight. GOOD LUCK - stay positive and be good to yourself. Anet

Thank you very much for your response. It shows us how importand it is to get second opinions. Keep up the fight! All the best, shelly