| Ovarian Cancer Stages | |
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NOTE: The only real way to know the proper stage of an ovarian tumor is by a careful surgical staging procedure, either when the tumor is removed, or through a separate laparotomy. A gynecologic oncologist is the medical professional with the best training and experience to perform this procedure.
Stage I - Cancer is only in the ovaries.
IA - Cancer is in one ovary, with the "capsule" around the tumor intact and remains inside the ovary (not visible on the surface).
IB - Cancer is in both ovaries, but otherwise as above.
IC - Cancer is either visible on the outside of the ovary or the capsule has burst or there is ascites with cancer cells in it (or they are found in peritoneal washings).
Stage II - Cancer has spread inside the pelvis, but not beyond.
IIA - Cancer has spread to the fallopian tubes and/or the uterus, but no cancer cells are found in ascites or peritoneal washings.
IIB - Cancer has spread to other parts of the pelvis, but no cancer cells are found in ascites or peritoneal washings.
IIC - Either IIA or IIB, but cancer cells ARE present either in ascites or peritoneal washings.
Stage III - Cancer is found on the surfaces of abdominal organs and/or in nearby lymph nodes.
IIIA - Microscopic (not visible to the eye) cancer cells are found on the surfaces of abdominal organs such as the intestines or liver.
IIIB - Cancer clumps found on organ surfaces, none of which is larger than 2 cm.
IIIC - Cancer clumps larger than 2 cm and/or spread to local lymph nodes.
Stage IV - Cancer has spread to more distant locations, such as the inside of the liver.
Understanding Gyn Cancer Staging
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Copyright © 2001 by Laura Dolson. All rights reserved. Please submit reprint requests to gyncancer@baymoon.com
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