Ovarian Cancer

Introduction

Ovarian cancer is a form of cancer characterized by an abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth that starts in the ovaries.

The ovaries are two small organs of the female reproductive system located in the pelvic region on each side of the uterus. They have two main functional roles: (1) produce and release eggs (ova) for reproduction and (2) produce and secrete two female hormones - estrogen and progesterone - that regulate the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and support the development of female secondary sexual characteristics.

Ovaries are formed from three distinct tissues:

1. Germ cells, the interior tissue responsible with the egg-producing process.
2. Stromal cells, tissue that produces the two female hormones, estrogen and progesterone.
3. Epithelial cells, the outside tissue that covers the ovaries.

When the cancer cells occur and divide abnormally in the ovaries, they can spread to other tissues and organs. They also can enter the lymphatic system or the bloodstream and form tumors in other regions of the body.

Ovarian cancer can occur at any age, but is more frequent in women over 50.

=

Article by Alina Morrow, MS
Medical Writer
OmniMedicalSearch.com

Page Covers: What is ovarian cancer?

3D animation of female anatomy.

Illustration of female anatomy.

Diagram of female anatomy.

Artist rendering of a nonspecific tumor.

Artist rendering of a nonspecific tumor.

Three rendered Illustrations of how cancer cells appear. The lower right is an actual cancer cell under high-scale magnification.

Ovarian Cancer Pictures from our Medical Image Search Engine

Overview | Conditions & Diseases | Sitemap | Toolbar
Add OmniMedicalSearch.com To Your Favorite's Folder

Copyright © OmniMedicalSearch.com

OmniMedicalSearch does not provide medical advice and the Medical Conditions & Diseases section is for informational purposes only. Please see our Medical Disclaimer and always consult with your physician.