How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?
If ovarian cancer is suspected because of symptoms or abnormal physical examination. Imaging tests of the abdomen and pelvis are usually recommended initially. Radiology tests do not provide enough information by themselves to definitively diagnose ovarian cancer. Even though it can provide important information about the location of cancer. The only way to diagnose ovarian cancer with certainty is with an exploratory operation. If a growth that appears cancerous is seen on the ovary, the entire ovary is usually removed. But in rare cases where open exploratory surgery is not possible because the woman is in poor health or the cancer is far advanced, a diagnostic laparoscopy may also be recommended.Most women who are suspected of having or are diagnosed with ovarian cancer undergo a blood test to measure the level of a protein tumor marker.