In ovarian cancer, approximately 70 to 90 percent of women will have a recurrence of the disease at some point following treatment for the original diagnosis, according to the Johns Hopkins pathology department. After initial treatment, 40 to 50 percent of women will have a recurrence in the following three years, a report on the Cancer Consultants website says. Many women will struggle with repeated recurrences of ovarian cancer, and treatment is aimed at minimizing symptoms and controlling the disease.
CA 125 Levels Rise
Rising levels of CA 125, the tumor marker used in ovarian cancer, may be a sign of recurrence in some patients, the Johns Hopkins report says. Despite a rise in CA 125 levels, there may be no physical or radiological signs of recurrent disease, and some doctors will wait to start treatment until the patient has symptoms, or there is evidence of disease during a physical exam or CT scan. Because there can be reasons other than recurrence for a rise in CA 125 levels, especially if it is temporary, this blood test is not a definitive symptom of recurrence.
Abdominal Discomfort
A prominent symptom of ovarian cancer and recurrence is bloating or fullness of the abdomen, the Mayo Clinic reports. Other abdominal symptoms cited include persistent indigestion or gas, changes in bladder or bowel habits, and urinary urgency. Lack of appetite and having a feeling of early satiety with eating can also be symptoms of recurrent ovarian cancer.
Pain
Pelvic pain or discomfort, lower back pain and pain with intercourse can all be symptoms of ovarian cancer that has recurred, the Mayo Clinic reports. If the cancer has metastasized to the bone, liver or brain, there may also be pain or other symptoms, Cancer Consultants says.
