Genetic Risk for Ovarian Cancer

My mother had ovarian cancer (Class I) in 1987 at age 58 and is alive today at age 78 and cancer free.  

My mother's sister (my aunt) was diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer in 2004 at age 75 and died 4 months later of pancreatic cancer, but I feel certain it was actually ovarian cancer because 4 months earlier she had been told after hysterectomy and debulking that the OC had spread to the fatty tissue in her abdomen ( I do not know what her death certificate reads as actual cause of death).  Her gynecologic oncologist referred her to a pancreatic cancer specialist when it was decided the cancer was in her pancreas.

I know that I am at increased risk, genetically for this disease because my mother had ovarian cancer.  Because my Aunt also had the disease, does this mean my risk is even higher genetically?  Or, the same?  I am currently 48, and am in the early stages of having a 4 cm adnexal mass diagnosed.  At this point, it appears to be a cyst and my CA125 levels over the past 4 months have been 26 - 36 - jumping around, not trending.

[dian07]

You are definately at a higher risk for ovarian cancer with your mother and aunt both having it..  You should pay close attention to what is going on with you.....personally, I would suggest you visit with a gyn/oncologist ......make certain you have a gyn/oncologist remove that cyst.....YOU HAVE ONLY ONE CHANCE TO GET IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME......see a gyn/oncologist.  You know, nearly 99% of cysts are benign.....mine wasn't and I am so glad I had a gyn/oncologist doing the surgery. Please do stay in touch.
Peace.
dian

[Hazel30]

Being that both your Mom and Aunt had ovca it probobly means that it is genetic.  I would deff see a gyn-oncologist as stated in previous post and I also recommend to get a genetic test for the gene BRCA1 & BRAC2 which are two genes that are responsible for both ovca and breast cancer.  Best wishes

[Floweringhosta]

Thanks for all the input.  I do have an appointment with a gynecologic oncologist tomorrow (Tues. May 29th).  It has been scheduled for a couple of weeks.  I did this at my own request, as my regular gynecologist was willing to have me go away and come back in 8 months.  I will ask about the genetic test, although I feel somewhat certain the doctor I am seeing will probably recommend a laparoscopy - thanks again for the responses.  I'll post tomorrow afternoon if I know anything.  

[nyc lady]

The rate increase is less then 10 percent when a first line family member, mother, sister, have had breast, colon and/or ovarian cancer.

There is genetic testing BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 which let's you know if you are a "carrier".  If these tests come back positive then your increased risk is 40 percent.  

The important thing to remember is that most OvCa are sporatic, and it is a very rare disease.  

I would suggest genetic conseling and possiblity discussing your concerns with a GYN/ONC>

Good luck

[Floweringhosta]

Doctor has recommended genetic testing.  Scheduled for June 5th.  How long does it take to get results back?  I am 48.  I have an ovary that hurts.  I'd be happy to have both ovaries taken out.  The genetic "counseling" ??- please I hope there isn't any "counseling" portion.  If my risk is lower, great.  If my risk is high, so be it.  Same result or desire to me - take my ovaries, please!  I have no children that need to know genetic results for their own health.