The short answer
Ovarian cancer is usually treated with surgery to remove as much cancer as possible, followed by chemotherapy. Targeted therapy is used for some ovarian cancers, and biomarker testing can help guide treatment.
Treatment usually combines surgery and chemotherapy.
Surgery aims to remove as much of the cancer as possible.
Chemotherapy is used after surgery, and sometimes before.
Targeted therapy helps some ovarian cancers, including those with BRCA changes.
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The full explanation.
The simple version
Ovarian cancer is usually treated with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. Surgery removes as much of the cancer as possible, and chemotherapy treats what remains. Targeted therapy and genetic testing increasingly shape the plan.
Surgery and chemotherapy
Surgery aims to remove as much of the cancer as possible, which may include the ovaries, uterus, and other affected tissue. Chemotherapy is usually given after surgery, and sometimes before, to treat cancer throughout the body.
Ovarian cancer treatment usually combines surgery with chemotherapy.
Targeted therapy and testing
Targeted therapy, including PARP inhibitors, helps some ovarian cancers, especially those with BRCA gene changes. Many people are offered genetic and biomarker testing, which can guide treatment and have implications for family members.
A plan built for you
Your team chooses treatment based on the stage and type of cancer and the results of testing. Ask about the goals of each treatment, side effects, and whether a clinical trial is an option.
Words to know
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Common questions
▸What are the main treatments?
Surgery and chemotherapy are the main treatments. Surgery removes as much of the cancer as possible, and chemotherapy is usually given after (and sometimes before) surgery.
▸What is targeted therapy for ovarian cancer?
Targeted therapy, including drugs called PARP inhibitors, helps some ovarian cancers, especially those linked to BRCA gene changes. Biomarker testing helps decide if these fit.
▸Why is genetic testing often recommended?
Many people with ovarian cancer are offered genetic testing, because inherited changes like BRCA can affect treatment options and have implications for family members.
▸What guides treatment?
The stage and type of ovarian cancer, along with biomarker and genetic testing, guide the treatment plan.
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