Diagnostic Capabilities for Ovarian & Primary Peritoneal Cancer

Accurate diagnosis is essential to choosing the best treatment for your type and stage of ovarian or primary peritoneal cancer. Several tests and procedures may be done to check the ovaries and peritoneum for cancer, including:

  • Physical examination and medical history
  • Biopsy

Imaging tests may be conducted in order to determine whether the cancer has spread or treatment has been effective, including:

  • Ultrasound
  • Chest X-ray
  • Computed Tomography (CT) scan
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan
  • Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan

Fox Chase Cancer Center radiologists and pathologists specializing in ovarian and primary peritoneal cancer review all available diagnostic tests in order to make an informed diagnosis.

Our Risk Assessment Program also provides thorough risk assessment and genetic counseling to high risk women for the prevention of gynecologic cancers.

Biopsy

Once a tumor has been identified, a biopsy is necessary to obtain a tissue sample, which is required in order to make a diagnosis and to determine the cancer staging. In a traditional core needle biopsy, a fine needle to collect a number of tissue samples, which are then examined for cell abnormalities that are a sign of  cancer.  Fox Chase radiologists specialize in performing image-guided biopsies. Using ultrasound, CT or MRI guidance, radiologists can sample even small lesions or lesions that are difficult to access by other means, as well as biopsies on patients with complicating medical factors. All biopsies performed at Fox Chase are minimally invasive.

Risk Assessment and Genetic Testing

Fox Chase offers a Risk Assessment Program for individuals and families at risk for cancer and those with cancer. Our team of physicians, nurses and genetic counselors provides clinical and genetic evaluation and testing, screening and cancer risk-reduction services. To contact Fox Chase about these programs call 877-627-9684.

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