Is there a correlation between endometriosis and ovarian cancer?
346418
From the ERC (www.endocenter.org), posted to their listserv at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/erc:\n\n\nEndometriosis-ovarian cancer link 'underestimated'\nSource: Human Reproduction 2006; 21: 1237-42\n\nResearchers assess the relative risks of individual cancers over a long period of follow-up among women with endometriosis. \n\nWomen with endometriosis appear to be up to twice as likely as the general population to develop ovarian cancer, say researchers. \n\nCo-existence of endometriosis and cancer has been reported several times. One study showed an overall relative risk of 1.2 in women with endometriosis compared with those without it, and risks for ovarian cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of 1.9 and 1.8, respectively. \n\nAnna Melin (Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden) and colleagues evaluated whether these risk ratios stood in an extended study. They identified women (n = 64,492) who were discharged from a Swedish hospital with a diagnosis of endometriosis between 1969 and 2000, and assessed their incidence of cancer, using the National Swedish Cancer Register. \n\nExcluding the first year of follow-up, there were 3349 cases of cancer. The overall risk of cancer was no higher than that expected on the basis of the female Swedish population, but ovarian cancer (standardized incidence ratio [SIR] = 1.43), endocrine tumors (SIR = 1.36), non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (SIR = 1.24), and brain tumors (SIR = 1.22) were all more prevalent.\n\nAn even higher risk of ovarian cancer was seen in women with early diagnosed (SIR = 2.01) and long-standing (SIR = 2.23) endometriosis, respectively. \n\n"This study has shown an increased risk of some types of malignancy, above all ovarian cancer, in women with endometriosis," the researchers conclude.\n\n"The material indicates that the risk might have been underestimated."\n\n19 April 2006\n\n------------------\n\nEndometriosis & Malignancies\n\nWe know that Endometriosis can impact every aspect of our lives, from our interpersonal relationships to our careers; from our ability to have children to our ability to get out of bed in the morning.  It can change our views on life and how we think about ourselves - and how we think about others.  The consequences of Endometriosis touch every part of us, inside and out, prompting some women to refer to their disease as a "benign cancer."  Can Endometriosis go one step further and actually turn malignant?  Can it even place us at risk for certain cancers and other illnesses?  Unfortunately, research shows that for some women, it may. \n\nMalignant transformation of Endometriosis can and does occur.  Some researchers even estimate that approximately 0.7-1.0% of patients with Endometriosis have lesions that will ultimately undergo malignant transformation, and urge consideration of performing bilateral oophorectomy at the time of abdominal surgery in patients with significant disease.(1) \n\nWe have also begun learning of the elevated risks women with the disease have for certain cancers, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.  The reasons why remain unclear; however, women with Endometriosis are more likely take certain drugs, such as Progestagens, and are more likely to have had their ovaries or uterus removed, another factor that influences hormone levels and possibly increases cancer risk.  One patient undergoing Tamoxifen therapy was discovered to have malignant endometrioid neoplasia arising within her Endometriosis, suggesting to her physicians that the Tamoxifen, as a result of its estrogenic effects, caused proliferative and malignant changes in her disease.(2)   \n\nIn a similar study targeting women who had undergone hysterectomy with oophorectomy because of Endometriosis, authors noted that "Endometriosis can undergo estrogen-dependent changes similar to the endometrium and may carry a risk of developing hyperplasia and carcinoma during unopposed estrogen stimulation."  The r
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Yes, there can be a connection between leg pain and ovarian cancer. The only way to be sure though is to check with your physician. Also, are there any other symptons, such as fluid retention going on?\n\nYour mother should check to see if she has any swelling in her legs. Sometimes with ovarian cancer (or any abdominal cancer) a condition called ascites can occur. This is a build of fluid produced by the tumor. Since you do not have a diagnosis for cancer yet, this may well be a symptom that you should not ignore. If your mother does seem to have swelling or fluid in her legs she should immediately contact her doctor. Do not be concerned that this is a weekend, doctors should be on call to handle this situation. If she has fluid build up they will instruct her what to do next, depending on how much is there. Do not ignore this though.\n\nAscites (with ovarian cancer)\nhttp://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000286.htm\n\nMy son had abdominal and leg swelling because the tumors were 'weeping'. He had over 40 pounds of fluid in the abdomen and feet and legs.\nHe was given lasix and was able to eliminate the fluid.\n\nCheck on this as soon as possible.\n\nGood luck.
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Ovarian Cyst Definition\nAn ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops near the surface of the ovary. The ovaries are two small organs on each side of a woman's uterus that produce eggs and female hormones. Mostly an ovarian cyst is small and benign (not cancerous). However, the larger ovarian cyst can cause pain and other problems. A woman can develop one or many ovarian cysts.\n\nOvarian Cyst Causes\nStructures called follicles normally grow in the ovaries each month. They produce hormones and release an egg during ovulation. In some cases, follicles may become cysts. There are two main types: \n\nFunctional cyst – occurs when a normal monthly follicle does not mature properly and the egg is not released. These cysts often go away on their own within one to three menstrual cycles.\nFollicular cyst – can occur after an egg is released. These cysts usually go away on their own in a few weeks.\n\nMost ovarian cysts are functional cysts and only occur during childbearing years. Many other, less common types of benign cysts can also develop from ovarian tissue. For example, women with endometriosis may develop endometriomas. Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue from the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. Endometriomas are cysts that grow from the uterine tissue on an ovary.\n\nPolycystic ovary syndrome is also associated with cysts. Women with this condition have several small cysts in their ovaries.\n\nA very small percentage of women have cysts that are caused by cancer.\n\nOvarian Cyst Risk Factors\nA risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or condition. The main risk factor for ovarian cyst is being a woman of childbearing age.\n\nOvarian Cyst Symptoms\nMost ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms. When they do, pelvic pain and irregular menstrual bleeding are the two most common symptoms. Pain is usually caused by: \n\nDirect pressure from the cysts on the ovaries and surrounding structures. This causes chronic pelvic fullness or a dull ache.\nBleeding from a cyst into and around the ovary. This causes more intense, sharp pain.\n\nPain may come and go on a regular basis. Or, it may become more noticeable just before or after a period or during intercourse.\n\nOther symptoms may include: \n\nUrinary discomfort associated with bladder pressure or irritation\nNausea\nDiarrhea\n\nIn rare cases, an ovarian cyst may become twisted and cut off its own blood supply. This can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever. This requires immediate medical attention.\n\nOvarian Cyst Diagnosis\nThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a pelvic exam. This includes feeling the ovaries. ovarian cysts are often found during routine pelvic exams when there are no symptoms.\n\nIf a cyst is suspected or found on physical exam, the doctor may recommend a pelvic ultrasound. This is a test that uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries, from which the doctor can determine the type and size of the cyst, and if treatment is needed.\n\nOther tests or procedures may be used if a cyst: \n\nDoes not go away after several menstrual cycles\nGets larger and more painful\nDoes not appear to be a simple functional cyst\n\nOther tests may include: \n\nLaparoscopy – A thin, lighted tube and other small instruments are inserted through several tiny incisions in the abdomen to look at the ovaries directly, drain fluid from a cyst, or take a sample for biopsy.\nBlood test for the protein CA-125 – This test is done when a cyst is suspected of being cancerous. CA-125 is sometimes elevated in the case of ovarian cancer.\n\nOvarian Cyst Treatment\nTreatment depends on your age, menstrual status, the size and type of the cyst, and your symptoms. The main types of treatment are:\n\nWait and See – This approach involves waiting a few months to see if the cyst goes away on its own.\n\nBirth Control Pills – If you have a functional cyst, your doctor may prescribe bi
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See your doctor if you don't get a period soon sometimes it could be a symptom of ovarian cysts or endometriosis.
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If you're referring to Ovarian Cysts, no. They can grow to the size of grapefruits. I know, I had multiple cysts, and my Dr. told me that they can turn cancerous. By the time a woman notices that they have Ovarian Cancer, it's usually too late. Please see a doctor. I think, that they can remove them.
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Unfortunately, SSI is not sensitive to Endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain conditions, but they are s-l-o-w-l-y beginning to understand the devastating toll diseases like Endo and IC are taking on women.  Your story seems to be on par with others attempting to file for SSI; it seems it takes an average of 3-4 times over the course of a couple of years before it is approved.  They try to make so hard that you'll just go away, so don't give up!  It looks like you are on course, since you're going before the judge now finally.  You might be interested in the following:\n\n"SSA Issues Ruling for Evaluating Interstitial Cystitis:\nThe Social Security Administration (SSA) has issued a new Social Security Ruling (SSR) that explains how the agency evaluates disability caused by interstitial cystitis or "IC." Published November 5, 2002, the ruling became effective immediately. It is titled SSR 02-2p, "Evaluation of Interstitial Cystitis." Applicants for disability benefits who have IC (and their advocates) should certainly review the ruling.  SSR 02-2p alerts SSA decision-makers to the disabling potential of IC, a relatively rare disorder, and helps doctors of women and men with IC focus on the issues that concern SSA when providing medical  documentation for disability claims.  SR 02-2p calls IC, "a complex, chronic bladder disorder characterized by urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and pelvic pain. IC occurs most frequently in women (about 10 times more often than in men), and sometimes prior to age 18. IC may be associated with other disorders, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, allergies, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, endometriosis, and vulvodynia (vulvar/vaginal pain). IC also may be associated with systemic lupus erythematosus." Click to view the text of SSR 02-2p, or look in the Federal Register dated November 5, 2002, pages 67436-67439."  Link: http://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/rulings/di/01/SSR2002-02-di-01.html\n\nThere is also a similar case file available at http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/data2/circs/8th/051954p.pdf.\n\nYour best bet is to go armed with valid literature outlining the devastating effects of Endo, IC, etc. and it helps to have an atty. on your side who understands the SSI circus.  Maybe the Endometriosis Research Center can help you (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/erc/pending).  There are a few cases where women with Endo have been able to get it, so hang in there and keep trying.\n\nGood luck to you.
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I'm not sure what your question is, but here's a list of Endometriosis organizations that may be able to help you.\nhttp://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=lang_en&q=endometriosis&btnG=Search
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there are too many types of cancer to list , but i think you might be asking about testical  , breast , cervical , uterine , ovarian cancers
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It would depend on the reason for the surgery in the first place, if there is a history of ovarian cancer in your family then it would be a choice you would have to consider to have both removed to avoid the possibility of developing ovarian cancer. However, when having a hysterectomy if one ovary is remaining it will allow your body to produce hormones naturally and will avoid the need for HRT due to menopause. On the flip side, there are several natural herbs that reduce the side effects of menopause and you no longer have to worry about a period. Which is better, i guess that depends again on the reason for your hysterectomy and ooferectomy in the first place.
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I also have had endometriosis.  Please see another gynecologist.  Birth control is the treatment of choice but, when it doesn't work, other therapies should be tried.  The other therapies are treatment with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a), high-dose progestin, a progestin intrauterine device (Mirena), or danazol.  Usually, those are tried before a hysterectomy is even suggested in someone as young as you.  Please get a second opinion.\n\nIn the meantime, at home, use ibuprofen, motrin or advil for the pain (NSAIDs) due to their anti-inflammatory effect.  Take them on a regular schedule as prescribed on the bottle.  Apply heat to your lower abdomen in the form of a hot water bottle, hot bath or heating pad.  Lie down!  If on your back, put a pillow under your knees.  If on your side, curl your knees up to your chest.  Get regular exercise.\n\nIf you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email me.  Just click on my avatar.
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If you are asking for the percentage of occurance for each condition, I do not know. I did find a site which is relative at :\nhttp://www.medstudents.com.br/endoc/endoc5.htm\nI wish you the best of luck.
696618
it is not exactly normal but it is not ovarian cancer. go back to the gyn, you need the pill to regulate your cycles.  may even need help with infertility when you do try to get pregnant.  very common with this-called polycystic ovarian syndrome.  search it to learn more
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For free, current and accurate info on the disease, offered with no hidden agenda other than to support and educate patients, visit the Endometriosis Research Center @ www.endocenter.org. Their literature states:\n\n"About Endometriosis:\n\nWith Endometriosis, tissue like that which lines the uterus (the endometrium) is found outside the womb in other areas of the body. Normally, the endometrium is shed each month through menses; however, with Endometriosis, these implants have no way of leaving the body. The implants still break down and bleed, but result is far different than in women and girls without the disease: internal bleeding, degeneration of blood and tissue shed from the growths, inflammation of the surrounding areas, and formation of scar tissue result. In addition, depending on the location of the growths, interference with the normal function of the bowel, bladder, intestines and other areas of the pelvic cavity can occur. Endometriosis has also been found lodged in the skin - and even the brain.\n\nSymptoms include chronic or intermittent pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation is not normal!), infertility, miscarriage(s), ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, dyspareunia (pain associated with intercourse), nausea / vomiting / abdominal cramping, diarrhea / constipation (particularly with menses), painful bowel movements, painful or burning urination, urinary frequency, retention, or urgency; fatigue, chronic pain, allergies and immune system-related illnesses are also commonly reported complaints of women who have Endo. It is quite possible to have some, all, or none of these symptoms. Endo symptoms are varied and often nonspecific, so they can easily masquerade as several other conditions, including adenomyosis ("Endometriosis Interna"), appendicitis, ovarian cysts, bowel obstructions, colon cancer, diverticulitis, ectopic pregnancy, fibroid tumors, gonorrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, ovarian cancer, and PID.\n\nDespite today's age of medical advances, researchers remain unsure as what causes of Endometriosis. There is NO CURE, despite the continued propagation of such myths by the uninformed who still mistakenly believe that hysterectomy, pregnancy and/or menopause can "cure" the disease. Invasive surgery remains the gold standard of diagnosis, and current therapies continue to remain extremely limited, often carrying side effects.\n\nMistakenly minimized as "painful periods," Endometriosis is more than just "killer cramps." It is a leading cause of female infertility, chronic pelvic pain and gynecologic surgery, and accounts for more than half of the 500,000 hysterectomies performed in the US annually. Despite being more prevalent than breast cancer, Endometriosis continues to be treated as an insignificant ailment. Recent studies have even shown an elevated risk of certain cancers and other serious illnesses in those with the disease, as well as malignant changes within the disease itself.\n\nResearch has shown that genetics, immune system dysfunction, and exposure to environmental toxins like Dioxin may all be contributing factors to the development of the disease. Endometriosis knows no racial or socioeconomic barriers, and can affect women ranging from adolescence to post-menopause. The disease can be so painful as to render a woman or teen unable to care for herself or her family, attend work, school, or social functions, or go about her normal routine. It can negatively affect every aspect of a woman's life; from her self-esteem and relationships, to her capacity to bear children, to her ability to be a contributing member of society.\n\nThe disease can currently only be diagnosed through invasive surgery, and the average delay in diagnosis is a staggering 9 years. A patient may seek the counsel of 5 or more physicians before her pain is adequately addressed. \n\nOnce diagnosed, it is not unusual for a patient to undergo sev
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For free, current and accurate info on the disease, offered with no hidden agenda other than to support and educate patients, visit the Endometriosis Research Center @ www.endocenter.org. They also offer free access to the internet's largest electronic support group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/erc, which has a TON of free educational information and materials in the files section of the group.  Definitely consider joining today to speak with over 3000 others who understand.  They offer ton of info about the surgical, medical and alternative options for treatment and "how to live well in spite of the disease." Also, I took this from their website at www.endocenter.org:\n\n"About Endometriosis:\n\nWith Endometriosis, tissue like that which lines the uterus (the endometrium) is found outside the womb in other areas of the body. Normally, the endometrium is shed each month through menses; however, with Endometriosis, these implants have no way of leaving the body. The implants still break down and bleed, but result is far different than in women and girls without the disease: internal bleeding, degeneration of blood and tissue shed from the growths, inflammation of the surrounding areas, and formation of scar tissue result. In addition, depending on the location of the growths, interference with the normal function of the bowel, bladder, intestines and other areas of the pelvic cavity can occur. Endometriosis has also been found lodged in the skin - and even the brain.\n\nSymptoms include chronic or intermittent pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation is not normal!), infertility, miscarriage(s), ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, dyspareunia (pain associated with intercourse), nausea / vomiting / abdominal cramping, diarrhea / constipation (particularly with menses), painful bowel movements, painful or burning urination, urinary frequency, retention, or urgency; fatigue, chronic pain, allergies and immune system-related illnesses are also commonly reported complaints of women who have Endo. It is quite possible to have some, all, or none of these symptoms. Endo symptoms are varied and often nonspecific, so they can easily masquerade as several other conditions, including adenomyosis ("Endometriosis Interna"), appendicitis, ovarian cysts, bowel obstructions, colon cancer, diverticulitis, ectopic pregnancy, fibroid tumors, gonorrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, ovarian cancer, and PID.\n\nDespite today's age of medical advances, researchers remain unsure as what causes of Endometriosis. There is NO CURE, despite the continued propagation of such myths by the uninformed who still mistakenly believe that hysterectomy, pregnancy and/or menopause can "cure" the disease. Invasive surgery remains the gold standard of diagnosis, and current therapies continue to remain extremely limited, often carrying side effects.\n\nMistakenly minimized as "painful periods," Endometriosis is more than just "killer cramps." It is a leading cause of female infertility, chronic pelvic pain and gynecologic surgery, and accounts for more than half of the 500,000 hysterectomies performed in the US annually. Despite being more prevalent than breast cancer, Endometriosis continues to be treated as an insignificant ailment. Recent studies have even shown an elevated risk of certain cancers and other serious illnesses in those with the disease, as well as malignant changes within the disease itself.\n\nResearch has shown that genetics, immune system dysfunction, and exposure to environmental toxins like Dioxin may all be contributing factors to the development of the disease. Endometriosis knows no racial or socioeconomic barriers, and can affect women ranging from adolescence to post-menopause. The disease can be so painful as to render a woman or teen unable to care for herself or her family, attend work, school, or social functions, or go about her normal routine. It
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Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrial stroma and glands, which should only be located inside the uterus) is found elsewhere in the body. \n\nEndometriosis lesions can be found anywhere in the pelvic cavity: on the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, and on the pelvic sidewall. Other common sites include the uterosacral ligaments, the cul-de-sac, the Pouch of Douglas, and in the rectal-vaginal septum.\n\nIn addition, it can be found in caecarian-section scars, laparoscopy or laparotomy scars, and on the bladder, bowel, intestines, colon, appendix, and rectum. \n\nIn rare cases, endometriosis has been found inside the vagina, inside the bladder, on the skin, even in the lung, spine, and brain. \n\nThe most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain. The pain often correlates to the menstrual cycle, but a woman with endometriosis may also experience pain that doesn’t correlate to her cycle. For many women, the pain of endometriosis is so severe and debilitating that it impacts their lives in significant ways. \n\nEndometriosis can also cause scar tissue and adhesions to develop that can distort a woman’s internal anatomy. In advanced stages, internal organs may fuse together, causing a condition known as a "frozen pelvis." \n\nIt is estimated that 30-40% of women with endometriosis are infertile. \n\nIf you or someone you care about has endometriosis, it is important to research the disease as much as possible. Many myths and misconceptions about endometriosis still persist, even in medical literature. For many women, management of this disease may be a long-term process. Therefore, it is important to educate yourself, take the time to find a good doctor, and join a support group.
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I have a lot of pain on my lower right side where my right ovary is.  I found out that I have endometriosis.  You really need to go to a doctor.  There's so much stuff in there to go wrong that's it's hard to know for sure.
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It doesn't sound like ovarian cancer, however, I am not a doctor. I can tell you from personal experience that when this happened to me I was pregnant. Please try and find a free clinic that offers services for the uninsured. You should see a doctor.