Cystadenocarcinoma is a cancerous cystic tumor that can develop in various organs, including the ovaries. It is caused by hormone imbalance and can be diagnosed through palpation and ultrasound. Treatment involves chemotherapy and surgery, and a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing it.
A cystadenocarcinoma is a malignant – or cancerous – cystic tumor that develops from glandular tissue and can be found in various organs such as the kidney, pancreas, colon, breasts and ovaries. It is the most common malignant ovarian tumor. Secretions or fluids are retained in a cyst, which can grow and even produce more cysts, then develop into a cystadenocarcinoma that metastasizes if left untreated.
The definition can be clarified by breaking down the term “cystadenocarcinoma”. A cyst is a closed, fluid-filled sac with membranes that attach to surrounding tissue, such as the ovary. The word “adenoma” translates to a benign tumor that can develop in places like the colon, adrenal glands, or thyroid gland. As the adenoma progresses into a cancerous tumor, it becomes what is known as an adenocarcinoma, with “carcinoma” meaning “cancerous.” The cyst may contain variations of fluid, blood, and solid matter, or a combination of each.
There are two common types of cystadenocarcinomas. The first is called a serous cystadenocarcinoma. The surface of this type of cyst is commonly covered with abnormal growths with vascular projections called papillary growths. It tends to have a fibrous center and is filled with a thin, clear fluid.
The second type is called a mucinous cystadenocarcinoma. This is a semisolid tumor also prevalent in the ovary and other organs. Many times, this cyst opens up to reveal a nest of further tumors and is filled with a yellow, gelatinous liquid that is sticky.
As the cyst grows and adheres to the surrounding tissue, ascites, which is a buildup of fluid in the abdomen, can occur. This can lead to cystadenocarcinoma symptoms, which can be vague but typically include a swollen abdomen and pain in the affected areas. Commonly, these areas include the lower abdomen and lower back on both the right and left sides. If cystadenocarcinoma occurs in the ovaries, abnormal menstrual cycles can also occur. Most cases of cystadenocarcinomas are diagnosed in advanced stages, as early symptoms are easily overlooked and are not apparent until the latter stages of cyst formation.
Diagnosis of a cystadenocarcinoma includes palpation and various types of ultrasound. Treatment is chemotherapy following complete surgical removal of the cystadenocarcinoma and surrounding tissue. Ongoing treatment might be recommended by certified oncology and gynecology institutes.
The most frequent cause of both benign and malignant ovarian cysts is hormone imbalance. Contributing factors for many types of cysts might include a weak immune system, certain medications, certain hormone-impaired foods and pesticides, or products such as harmful cleaning fluids, paints, and plastics. Leading a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole grains, as well as minimal exposure to harmful chemicals, could reduce your risk of developing cystadenocarcinoma.
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