Ovarian cancer question

Hello, My name is diane920. 2 wks. ago I had complete hyster. for ova-ca. Have had the symptoms for months but ignored them. Cramps, bloting, terrible back pain. I'm an RN in a busy E.D. Could have been explained away right? Diagnosis: Peritoneal /serosal involvement by pappilary serous neoplasm. Serous borderline tumor report says.Pelvic washing says "indeterminate for malignancy".
So, does it sound benign or malignant? Treat with chemo?
Thanks for any help you can offer,
Diane920

[hopeshell]

Borderline tumors are a tricky group.  I personally consider them malignant because they can spread and recur.  But, most behave in a "benign" fashion in that they don't recur or spread with proper surgery.  The fact that your washings were indeterminate for malignancy means that your stage is probably up in the air.  But, your path report should still give a stage.  If not, ask your doctor.   You may want to send your pathology slides to a major cancer center for a second opinion.   If it is a true borderline tumor, chemo is not very effective because it is slow growing.  Have you seen a gynecologic oncologist?  If not, that is the most important step you can take.

I have heard of chemo being used for later stage borderline tumors.  Certain types of serous borderline tumors have a greater chance of recurrence and I have think chemo is recommended for that type.  But, doctors do not all agree on the treatment.   Most of the time, surgery is the only treatment for borderline tumors unless it is one of the higher risk types.   These are very important questions you should ask your doctor.  You should have regular follow-up with a gyn/onc.  But, overall, your prognosis is good.  Best wishes!

[diane920]

Thanks for your response :D I see a gyn/onc at University Hosp. Cleveland Oh. Next Mon. I will take your comments and use as my ques. I will post a note after my appointment.
Thanx again :) Diane (920)