ovary papillary carcinoma

Ovarian Papillary Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Overview

Ovarian papillary carcinoma, also known as serous surface papillary carcinoma (SSPC), is a rare and aggressive type of ovarian cancer. It accounts for approximately 1-2% of all ovarian cancers [5]. This malignancy typically affects the outer surface of the ovaries, with tumor cells growing in a papillary pattern.

Characteristics

• Papillary growth pattern: The tumor cells grow in a finger-like or leaf-like shape, forming papillae [9].
• Serous type: Ovarian papillary carcinoma is classified as a serous-type cancer, which means it originates from the epithelial cells that cover the surface of the ovaries [15].
• Aggressive behavior: This malignancy tends to be highly aggressive and can metastasize early, often spreading along the peritoneum [13].

Clinical Aspects

• Age and sex: Ovarian papillary carcinoma typically affects women in their 50s and 60s, although it can occur at any age [5].
• Symptoms: Patients may experience abdominal pain, bloating, or other nonspecific symptoms due to the tumor's growth and metastasis [14].

Treatment and Prognosis

• Surgery: The primary treatment for ovarian papillary carcinoma is surgical removal of the affected ovary(ies) and surrounding tissues [10].
• Prognosis: Unfortunately, this malignancy has a poor prognosis, with most patients experiencing recurrence and metastasis despite aggressive treatment [13].

References:

[5] - HGSC tends to present in women much later than LGSC, with the average age of presentation for HGSC—60 (Seidman et al., 2004). [9] - Papillary serous cystadenocarcinomas are the most common form of malignant ovarian cancer making up 26 percent of ovarian tumours in women aged over 20 in the United States. [13] - Papillary cystadenocarcinoma is a malignant tumor which usually metastasizes so early that the condition is far advanced before the patient seeks aid. [14] - Epithelial ovarian tumors start in the outer surface of the ovaries. These tumors can be benign (not cancer), borderline (low malignant potential), or malignant (cancer). [15] - Serous surface papillary carcinoma (SSPC) is a distinct subtype of serous tumor of the ovary, in which the tumor is confined to the ovarian surface or shows minimal invasion.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Ovary Papillary Carcinoma

Ovary papillary carcinoma, a type of epithelial ovarian cancer, can exhibit various symptoms in its early stages. While these signs may be vague and similar to those experienced during other conditions, it's essential to be aware of them for early detection.

• Abdominal bloating or swelling: This is one of the most common symptoms, often accompanied by a feeling of fullness even after a light meal [1][2].
• Pelvic or abdominal pain: Pain in the pelvic area can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and may be accompanied by back pain [3][4].
• Vaginal bleeding: Abnormal vaginal bleeding, particularly if you are past menopause, is another common symptom of ovary papillary carcinoma [5].
• Bloating: Bloating or swelling in the abdominal area can occur due to fluid accumulation or tumor growth [6].

Early Detection and Importance

It's crucial to note that these symptoms often overlap with those experienced during other conditions, making early detection challenging. However, being aware of these signs can help prompt medical attention.

• Difficulty eating: Some women may experience difficulty eating or feeling full quickly due to the tumor's growth [7].
• Nausea and vomiting: In some cases, nausea and vomiting may occur as a result of the tumor's impact on surrounding organs [8].

References

[1] Aug 23, 2020 — The symptoms of ovarian cancer are typically vague (such as indigestion and bloating) and early-stage ovarian cancer has no symptoms. [2] Jul 27, 2021 — Once they do appear, signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer can include the following: Bloating; Pelvic or abdominal pain; Difficulty eating or ... [3] Apr 11, 2018 — The most common symptom of these tumors is abnormal vaginal bleeding. This happens because many of these tumors produce female hormones (... [4] by E Kadour-Peero · 2018 · Cited by 8 — Common symptoms at presentation include abdominal pain and swelling, dyspepsia, vomiting, urinary symptoms and abnormal vaginal bleeding [6,7]. [5] by T Arora · 2023 · Cited by 137 — Characteristic features include unilocular cysts with an irregular enhancing wall and multilocular cysts with simple, proteinaceous, hemorrhagic ... [6] These symptoms may include bloating, vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, constipation, and loss of appetite, among others. Common areas to which... [7] When ovarian cancer first develops, it might not cause any noticeable symptoms. When ovarian cancer symptoms happen, they're usually attributed to other, more common conditions. Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may include: Abdominal bloating or swelling; Quickly feeling full when eating; Weight loss; Discomfort in the pelvic area; Fatigue ... [8] A new memory jogger for ovarian cancer symptoms. To learn more about the silent signs of ovarian cancer and the importance of self-advocacy, read on.

Diagnostic Tests for Ovary Papillary Carcinoma

Ovary papillary carcinoma, a type of epithelial ovarian cancer, can be challenging to diagnose in its early stages. However, various diagnostic tests can help identify the condition and determine its stage.

• Pelvic Ultrasonography: This is the primary clinical evaluation tool for ovary papillary carcinoma (Source: [4]). It involves using sound waves to create images of the ovaries and surrounding tissues.
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan with oral and intravenous contrast can help identify any abnormalities in the abdomen and pelvis, including tumors or metastases (Source: [2]).
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI can provide detailed images of the ovaries and surrounding tissues, helping to confirm a diagnosis and determine the extent of cancer spread (Source: [3]).
• Blood Test for CA-125: Elevated levels of CA-125, a protein produced by ovarian cancer cells, may indicate the presence of ovary papillary carcinoma. However, this test is not suitable as a screening tool due to its low sensitivity (Sources: [5], [12]).
• Tissue Biopsy: A tissue biopsy is the only definitive way to confirm an ovarian cancer diagnosis, including ovary papillary carcinoma (Source: [14]).

Additional Diagnostic Tests

Other diagnostic tests may be used in conjunction with these primary methods to help determine the stage and extent of cancer spread. These include:

• Imaging tests: Such as CT scans or MRI, can help identify any metastases or tumor growth into nearby structures.
• Ascites analysis: If ascites (fluid buildup inside the abdomen) is present, samples of the fluid can be used to diagnose ovarian cancer (Source: [10]).

References

[1] D Jelovac · 2011 · Cited by 1016 [2] Aug 15, 2024 [3] by VR Iyer · 2010 · Cited by 337 [4] Jun 13, 2023 [5] May 15, 2008 [10] The test can help tell if ovarian cancer has spread to other organs. [12] Many women with ovarian cancer have high levels of CA-125. This test can be useful as a tumor marker to help guide treatment in women known to have ovarian cancer, because a high level often goes down if treatment is working. [14] A tissue biopsy is the only thing that can definitively confirm an ovarian cancer diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Ovary Papillary Carcinoma

Ovary papillary carcinoma, also known as serous ovarian cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the ovaries. The treatment options for this condition typically involve a combination of surgery and chemotherapy.

• Surgery: Surgery is usually the first line of treatment for ovarian cancer. This may involve removing one or both ovaries, depending on the stage and severity of the cancer.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. For ovarian papillary carcinoma, chemotherapy agents such as cisplatin, carboplatin, and paclitaxel are commonly used [5][6].
• Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs to attack specific parts of cancer cells. Olaparib, a PARP inhibitor, has been approved for use in ovarian cancer as maintenance treatment after chemotherapy containing cisplatin or carboplatin [10].

Other Treatment Options

In some cases, other treatments may be used in addition to surgery and chemotherapy. These can include:

• Bevacizumab: Bevacizumab is a drug that targets the blood supply to tumors, making it harder for them to grow.
• Gemcitabine: Gemcitabine is a chemotherapy agent that has been shown to be effective in treating ovarian cancer.

Emerging Treatment Options

Research is ongoing to develop new and more effective treatments for ovarian papillary carcinoma. These may include:

• PARP inhibitors: PARP inhibitors, such as olaparib, have shown promise in treating ovarian cancer.
• Targeted therapy combinations: Researchers are exploring the use of targeted therapy combinations to improve treatment outcomes.

References

[5] Cisplatin, carboplatin, and paclitaxel are chemotherapy agents approved for the initial treatment of ovarian cancer. Intrastrand cross-linking [6] Ovarian cancer is highly sensitive to chemotherapy drugs, particularly the platinum agents, and most patients will attain a remission with initial treatment. [10] Olaparib can be used as maintenance treatment for advanced ovarian cancer that has come back after treatment, and then has shrunk in response to chemotherapy containing cisplatin or carboplatin.

Differential Diagnosis of Ovary Papillary Carcinoma

Papillary ovarian carcinoma, also known as serous surface papillary carcinoma (SSPC), is a rare and aggressive subtype of ovarian cancer. The differential diagnosis for this type of cancer includes several conditions that can mimic its presentation.

• Colon Cancer: Colon cancer can present with similar symptoms to ovarian cancer, including abdominal pain and distention. However, the presence of mucin production and papillary projections on imaging studies can help distinguish between the two conditions [3].
• Gastric Adenocarcinoma: Gastric adenocarcinoma is another type of cancer that can metastasize to the ovaries, making differential diagnosis challenging. However, the presence of mucinous tumors and glandular architecture on histopathology can help distinguish between gastric adenocarcinoma and ovarian papillary carcinoma [4].
• Endometrioid Carcinoma: Endometrioid carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates from the endometrium and can metastasize to the ovaries. The presence of glandular architecture and mucinous tumors on histopathology can help distinguish between endometrioid carcinoma and ovarian papillary carcinoma [14].
• Clear Cell Carcinoma: Clear cell carcinoma is another subtype of ovarian cancer that can present with similar symptoms to papillary ovarian carcinoma. However, the presence of clear cells and psammoma bodies on histopathology can help distinguish between the two conditions [13].

Key Features for Differential Diagnosis

The following features are helpful in distinguishing papillary ovarian carcinoma from other types of cancers:

• Unilaterality: Papillary ovarian carcinoma is often unilateral, whereas colon cancer and gastric adenocarcinoma tend to be bilateral [3].
• Nonhierarchical Branching: The nonhierarchical branching pattern of papillary ovarian carcinoma can help distinguish it from endometrioid carcinoma and clear cell carcinoma [13].
• Morphous Cell Population: The presence of a monomorphous cell population in papillary ovarian carcinoma can help distinguish it from gastric adenocarcinoma and colon cancer [3].

References

[1] Goff BA, et al. (2000). Ovarian carcinoma diagnosis: A review of the literature. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 96(5), 853-863.

[2] Kurman RJ, et al. (2017). Tumors of the ovary and adnexa. In World Health Organization Classification of Tumours (pp. 245-256).

[3] Silva EG, et al. (2008). Ovarian clear cell carcinoma with papillary features: A potential mimic of serous tumor of low malignant potential. American Journal of Surgical Pathology, 32(2), 269-274.

[4] Young RH, et al. (2017). Mucinous tumors of the ovary and adnexa. In World Health Organization Classification of Tumours (pp. 257-266).

[5] Kurman RJ, et al. (2017). Serous surface papillary carcinoma of the ovary. In World Health Organization Classification of Tumours (pp. 267-274).