What is the primary diagnostic tool for ovarian cancer?

The primary diagnostic tool for ovarian cancer is a combination of the CA125 serum marker and pelvic ultrasound. CA125 is a tumor marker that is often elevated in women with ovarian cancer, making it a useful initial screening tool, particularly in symptomatic women or those at high risk. However, it is important to note that CA125 can also be elevated in non-cancerous conditions, which is why it is commonly used alongside pelvic ultrasound.

Pelvic ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows for the visualization of the ovaries and surrounding structures. It helps identify abnormal masses or cysts that are suspicious for malignancy. Together, CA125 levels and pelvic ultrasound provide valuable diagnostic information, aiding in the detection of ovarian tumors and evaluating their characteristics.

The other imaging modalities mentioned, such as CT scans or MRI, are generally not the first line for initial diagnosis. They may be used later in the assessment for staging or assessing for metastasis if ovarian cancer is confirmed, but they are not the primary tools for initial diagnosis. Transvaginal ultrasound is also used in the evaluation of ovarian masses but typically is not combined with the tumor marker in the way that CA125 and pelvic ultrasound are. Therefore, the combination of CA125 and pelvic ultrasound represents the best