Treatment
Surgery
Surgery is usually the first step in treating PPC and is likely performed by a gynecologic oncologist. The goal of surgery is to remove ALL visible disease (tumor debulking) because this has been shown to increase survival. They will remove as much cancerous tissue as possible, including the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, omentum, nearby lymph nodes, and appendix. The peritoneum itself cannot be removed. If most of the visible disease is removed and the remaining cancer is less than 1cm in diameter, the patient is considered optimally debulked.
Chemotherapy
If surgery did not remove all of the cancer, chemotherapy may be offered. Chemotherapy may also be the first line of defense if surgery cannot be performed. "Chemo" works by destroying cancer cells. It can be given through the veins (intravenous) or into the peritoneum (intraperitoneal). The most commonly used drug for PPC or ovarian cancer is Carboplatin, often given with Paclitaxil. It is traditionally given once every 3 weeks for 6 weeks, but your oncologist may suggest a slightly different regiment based on your needs. Be sure to talk with your oncologist about the side effects of Chemo. Most side effects are temporary and affect people differently.
Side Effects of Chemotherapy
- nausea
- loss of appetite
- increased chance of infection
- hair loss
- diarrhea or constipation
- fatigue
- mouth sores
Radiation
Radiation may be used for isolated areas of cancer. It works by destroying cancer cells on the DNA level. Side effects can include skin damage near the site of the radiation beams, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. For more information, visit the National Cancer Institute's site here: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Therapy/radiation
Palliative Care
The goal of Palliative care is to improve the quality of life of patients with cancer by preventing and/or treating the side effects of PPC or the treatments for PPC. It begins at diagnosis and provides comfort and support through the course of your cancer. Palliative care is different than hospice. It is given in addition to treatment. You can receive Palliative care at home, through a physician, or at a hospital. Research has shown that patients given Palliative Care during the course of their cancer is beneficial to both the patient and family and improves quality of life.
Issues addressed with Palliative Care:
Symptom management for pain, fatigue, nausea, insomnia may include medicines or alternative therapies.
Specialists can help you cope with depression, anxiety, fear and other concerns. They may direct you to counseling, support groups, or provide other resources for you and your family.
Addressing changes in your beliefs and/or values during your battle with cancer are important to achieve a sense of peace. Palliative care specialists can help by providing an expert for you to talk with.
You may have questions/concerns regarding finances, medical or legal paperwork, or need help with transportation. A palliative care team can help ease your burden by providing resources for you.
Talk with your doctor about receiving Palliative Care if you are interested.