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Ovarian Cancer (Expert Forum)
ovarian cancer
Answered by
Annekathryn Goodman, M.D. - Gynecologic Cancers, Complex Gynecologic, Surgeries, Palliative Care, Acupuncture
Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions and support regarding ovarian cancer issues, such as: Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Clinical Trials, Genetics, Hysterectomy,Immunotherapy, Ovarian Cancer Types, Radiation Therapy, Risk Factors, Screening, Staging, Surgery.
ovarian cancer
by gooddaughter, Dec 03, 2006 12:00AM
We are awaiting test results but I suspect that my Mom is in the late stages of ovarian cancer. She is 88 years old and her only other medical problem is osteoporosis; her heart, lungs, etc. are fine. However, my Mom has spent her life avoiding medical interventions. Her only surgery was an appendectomy in 1961.
I don't want to encourage her to undergo surgery, chemo, etc. if this will take away her quality of life and have little chance of success. At present her only complaint is that she has a big belly, digestive complaints relieved by Gas-X, and frequent urination. What would be the progress of ovarian cancer if there is no intervention?
I don't want to encourage her to undergo surgery, chemo, etc. if this will take away her quality of life and have little chance of success. At present her only complaint is that she has a big belly, digestive complaints relieved by Gas-X, and frequent urination. What would be the progress of ovarian cancer if there is no intervention?
Doctor's Answer
by Annekathryn Goodman, M.D., Dec 07, 2006 12:00AM
, Dec 07, 2006 12:00AM
Hi There,
If your mother has ovarian advanced cancer, there are several common problems that can cause suffering.
The cancer can cause a blockage in the intestine.
Fluid in the abdomen causes kidney failure
Fluid can build up in the lungs
Malnutrition causes swelling in the legs.
It is very reasonable to consider only best supportive care - alleviating suffering from pain, vomiting, abdominal distension.
You should ask her oncologist whether she/he does palliative care as part of their practice. Many gynecologic oncologists take care of their patients even when they are not receiving active therapy such as chemotherapy. If not, getting a referral to a palliative care specialist can be very helpful. That kind of clinician specializes in end of life care and can help you and your mother through tough times.
It is hard to give a time course. That would depend on how sick she is now.
best wishes to you
If your mother has ovarian advanced cancer, there are several common problems that can cause suffering.
The cancer can cause a blockage in the intestine.
Fluid in the abdomen causes kidney failure
Fluid can build up in the lungs
Malnutrition causes swelling in the legs.
It is very reasonable to consider only best supportive care - alleviating suffering from pain, vomiting, abdominal distension.
You should ask her oncologist whether she/he does palliative care as part of their practice. Many gynecologic oncologists take care of their patients even when they are not receiving active therapy such as chemotherapy. If not, getting a referral to a palliative care specialist can be very helpful. That kind of clinician specializes in end of life care and can help you and your mother through tough times.
It is hard to give a time course. That would depend on how sick she is now.
best wishes to you
