Ovarian cancer in pregnancy

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this manuscript is to review the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment and outcomes of ovarian cancers diagnosed during pregnancy.

Finding: Ovarian cancer in pregnancy, although rare, is more likely to be diagnosed early during pregnancy due to the increased use of high resolution ultrasound. Treatment will depend on a multidisciplinary team. These cancers are usually treated with surgery alone during pregnancy, optimally between 13-20 weeks to reduce the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor. Chemotherapy is usually given after delivery if appropriate to the tumor type, unless the patient has widely metastatic disease.

Conclusion: The majority of ovarian cancers diagnosed during pregnancy are Stage I due to both young age and increased use of early ultrasound during pregnancy and have a better overall prognosis than the cancers detected in older women.

Keywords: Ovarian cancer; Pregnancy.