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What is Epithelial Ovarian Cancer?

The most prevalent kind of ovarian cancer is epithelial. This cancer starts in the epithelial tissue, a thin membrane covering the outside of the ovary.

Cancer may also develop in the lining of a fallopian tube. It could also begin in the peritoneum, the tissue surrounding your abdominal organs.

Medical professionals classify fallopian tube malignancies and primary peritoneal cancers as epithelial ovarian cancers.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

Timely treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer is essential for increasing survival rates and quality of life. Early detection and intervention, such as surgery and chemotherapy, can dramatically improve treatment outcomes and remission rates.

Cancer is frequently identified in its later stages, when it has spread to other places, making treatment more challenging. Delaying therapy may allow the cancer to develop, potentially leading to problems such as organ damage, intestinal obstruction, and ascites (fluid accumulation).

Early and immediate therapy allows for better disease control, symptom management, and prevention of cancer spread, resulting in a better prognosis.

What are the Common Symptoms of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer?

Epithelial ovarian cancer rarely produces symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms worsen as the condition advances. As it spreads into your peritoneum (the tissue surrounding your abdominal organs), fluid accumulates in your abdomen (ascites).

  • Symptoms may include abdominal ache
  • Difficulty eating or becoming full quickly
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Bloating
  • Pelvic discomfort
  • Less common symptoms include urge incontinence and hyperactive bladder
  • Vaginal bleeding

Types of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Various types of epithelial ovarian cancer include :

  • Serous ovarian cancer
    • The most frequent type of ovarian cancer is high-grade serous carcinoma (grades 3 or 4). Its name includes the word "serous" because this type of cancer grows in the serous membrane of the epithelial layer of cells that lines the patient's abdomen and pelvis.
    • Low-grade serous carcinoma, the fourth most prevalent type of ovarian cancer, has cancer cells that proliferate at a slower rate than high-grade serous cancer.
  • Endometrioid ovarian carcinoma
    • This kind of cancer, which accounts for approximately 20% of all epithelial ovarian cancer cases, is frequently identified in earlier stages than serous ovarian carcinoma. It is commonly found in people who have a history of endometriosis.
  • Clear-cell carcinoma
    • Also known as "clear cell adenocarcinoma," this is a rare kind of epithelial ovarian cancer in which the cells appear clear under a microscope. It is also suspected to be associated with endometriosis.
  • Mucinous carcinoma
    • One of the most uncommon types of ovarian cancer, this subtype is distinguished by tumors with aberrant mucus-secreting cells. It is the most common subtype of epithelial ovarian cancer found in women under 40.

Causes, Risk Factors and Complications of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Causes

According to recent research, many ovarian malignancies begin in cells at the end of the fallopian tubes. Then they spread to the ovaries.

Risk Factors

Certain factors may raise your risk of ovarian cancer, including:

  • Family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer.
  • Inheriting a mutation in the BRCA gene.
  • Inheriting a gene associated with family cancer disorders such as Lynch syndrome.
  • Hormone treatment for menopausal symptoms.
  • Having a baby after age 35, or never experiencing a full-term pregnancy.
  • Obesity refers to carrying excess weight.

Complications

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC) can lead to several complications, mainly if not diagnosed and treated early. Some of the main complications include:

  • Metastasis
  • Bowel Obstruction
  • Ascites
  • Peritonitis
  • Recurrent Cancer
  • Reduced Fertility
  • Anemia
  • Lymphedema

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Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer in India

  • Recent advances in treating epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) in India include the development of immunotherapies and monoclonal antibodies, targeted medicines based on novel biomarkers, and surgical breakthroughs aimed at maximising cytoreduction. These initiatives are intended to increase survival rates and personalise patient treatment.

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Prevention Tips

Some epithelial ovarian cancer prevention tips:

  • Long-term usage of hormonal birth control may lower the risk.
  • Prophylactic Surgery: High-risk individuals should consider having their ovaries and fallopian tubes removed.
  • Gynecological checks should be performed regularly to detect problems early on.
  • Healthy Diet: Eat a well-balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of ovarian cancer.
  • Avoid long-term hormone replacement therapy after menopause.
  • Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity may reduce risk.
  • Breastfeeding may help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
  • Seek medical advice if you experience persistent symptoms such as bloating or abdominal pain.

Treatment options for Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Surgery: Surgery for ovarian cancer may involve removing one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes, or the uterus. For advanced cancer, surgery may be recommended, with chemotherapy administered before or after surgery.


Cost Start From USD 8000 - USD 10000Explore Options

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a pharmacological treatment that uses chemicals to kill rapidly developing cells in the body, including cancer cells.


Cost Start From USD 600 - USD 700Explore Options

Targeted therapy: Targeted medication treatments target specific flaws seen in cancer cells. Targeted pharmacological treatments can potentially kill cancer cells by exploiting their weaknesses.


Cost Start From USD 8000 - USD 12000Explore Options

Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy employs medications to inhibit the effects of the hormone estrogen on ovarian cancer cells. Some ovarian cancer cells need estrogen to develop; therefore, inhibiting estrogen may help control the malignancy.


Cost Start From USD 3500 - USD 5500Explore Options

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy utilises the immune system to combat cancer. The body's disease-fighting immune system may not attack cancer cells because they create proteins that allow them to hide from immune system cells. Immunotherapy works by interfering with the process.


Cost Start From USD 3000 - USD 5000Explore Options

Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-ray photons to eliminate cancer cells.

The following tests and procedures diagnose ovarian cancer:

Pelvic examination: During a pelvic exam, your doctor inserts gloved fingers into your vagina while pressing one hand on your belly to palpate your pelvic organs. The doctor will also visually inspect your external genitalia, vagina, and cervix.

Imaging testing: Ultrasound or CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis can assist in identifying the size, shape, and structure of your ovaries.

Blood testing: Blood testing may include organ function tests, which can assist in determining your overall health.

Genetic testing: Your doctor may recommend that you get a blood sample tested for gene mutations that raise your risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Rehabilitation for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) aims to improve quality of life while also treating the physical, emotional, and psychological impacts of the disease and its treatments. Key components are:

Physical therapy: It can help you manage fatigue, increase mobility, and restore strength following surgery or chemotherapy.

Psychosocial Support: Psychosocial assistance includes counseling and support groups for anxiety, sadness, and emotional well-being before and after treatment.

Lymphedema Therapy: If necessary, to treat fluid buildup that may develop following surgery or lymph node excision.

Depending on the circumstances, your doctor may prescribe medication to assist you in managing your symptoms and support your treatment plan.

Treatment regimens are adapted to the patient's specific cancer stage and location.

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Hospitals for Epithelial Ovarian Cancer in India

Ruby Hall Clinic: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Ruby Hall Clinic

Pune, India

Ruby Hall Clinic located in Pune, India is accredited by NABH. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Ruby Hall Clinic brought in Intensive Care and Coronary care units as early as in 1969.
  • It was the pioneer in terms of having achieved the first successful Kidney Transplant and test tube baby in Pune and being the initiator for Cobalt Therapy to ensure Cancer treatment.
  • Imaging advancement is being used in the hospital which is highly advanced known as Positron Emission Tomography.
  • Ruby Hall Clinic is in the possession of two cardiac cath labs and Linear Accelerators.
  • There are as many as 550 in-patient beds which is inclusive of 130 ICU beds.
  • Air Ambulance services are provided by the hospital.
  • There is a multi-organ transplant centre which began operations in the year 1997 and a Neuro Trauma stroke centre.
  • There is also the presence of an independent Stroke Trauma Unit which is fully equipped and enabled with the right units and healthcare personnel.
Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet

Hyderabad, India

Yashoda Hospital, Malakpet located in Hyderabad, India is accredited by NABH, NABL. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Multi-bed facility
  • High-tech labs, modular operation theaters
  • Advanced medical equipement
  • Dedicated rooms for patients with all facilities
  • State-of-art technology
  • 24/7 blood bank
  • State of the art Cardio-Thoracic Center with the latest CATH LAB Equipment & Modular steel operation theatre
  • Neurosurgery department equipped with an operating microscope, high-speed drill & stereotaxy
  • 24-hour Emergency services to take care of all kinds of trauma and other orthopedic emergencies
  • Pulmonology department equipped with modern gadgets.
  • One of the best PFT labs and bronchoscopy units
  • Nephrology services include Renal Biopsy, AV Fistulas, AV Grafts & Permanent Catheter Insertions, Hemodialysis; Temporary Access For Dialysis; Peritoneal Dialysis
  • Has a comprehensive cancer care unit following a trans-disciplinary & multi-modality approach
  • State-of-the-art services of Digital X rays, Flouroscopy, Ultrasonography, OPG, Mammography, CT 64 Slices, MRI, etc.
  • Airport Transfer Service
  • Scheduling Of All Medical Appointment
  • Processing Of Medical Second Opinion
  • Provide Language Interpreter
  • Special Dietary Needs / Religious Arrangement
  • Coordination Of Admissions Process
  • Cost Estimates For Anticipated Treatments
  • Foreign Exchange service
  • Billing and Finance Related Service
  • Providing Information Of Patient’s Relatives Back Home
Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali

Ghaziabad, India

  • Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, is a leading multi-speciality hospital with 387+ beds and 37+ clinical specialities, offering advanced care in Cardiology, Neuro Sciences, Oncology, Orthopaedics, Transplants, Gastroenterology, and Reconstructive Surgery.
  • Supported by 389+ doctors and 1038+ trained staff, the hospital combines state-of-the-art technology, including robotic surgery and advanced imaging systems, with compassionate, patient-centred care.
  • Accredited by NABH and NABL, Max Vaishali is a trusted destination for both domestic and international patients seeking high-quality, integrated medical services.

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Why Choose India for Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Treatment?

Here are some of the reasons for choosing India:

  • Due to advancements in medical facilities, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques.
  • World-class experts include highly experienced doctors and JCI and NABH-accredited healthcare institutions.
  • Compared to other countries, treatment in Indian hospitals is cost-effective.
  • Indian hospitals provide International patient services, including a multilingual support system.
  • Improved treatment methods and biological therapies

Frequently Asked Questions

The survival rate varies according to the stage of diagnosis. Early-stage EOC has a better survival probability; however, advanced-stage illness may have a worse prognosis. Ongoing research and clinical breakthroughs are intended to enhance outcomes.

In India, genetic testing for mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 is essential for guiding treatment decisions and assessing the risk of cancer in relatives, especially for women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer.

Regular follow-up care is critical for monitoring for cancer recurrence, managing treatment side effects, and maintaining overall health. This usually includes regular exams, imaging, and blood testing.

Early signs may be vague and easily missed, but they may include abdominal bloating, pelvic pain or pressure, changes in bowel habits, increased urine urgency, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms may intensify as the condition progresses.

Yes, immunotherapy is being considered as a treatment for EOC. Checkpoint inhibitors and vaccines increase the immune system's ability to recognise and fight cancer cells. Clinical trials are currently being conducted in India to investigate these approaches.