Screening for ovarian cancer.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death from gynaecological malignancy, with over 800 Australian women dying annually, primarily because of late presentation of disease. Although a screening test for this disease is attractive, currently none are available for use in the general population. Work is underway in relation to the benefit for women at 'higher risk'. OBJECTIVE: To provide clear guidelines for screening for ovarian cancer. DISCUSSION: No single test currently has the sensitivity or specificity to be used as a population screening test for this disease. Nonetheless, for patients at 'high risk' the use of Ca125 and transvaginal ultrasound may be of benefit. Results from three major international multicentre trials are awaited.