Ovarian cancer is an insidious cancer that often spreads to other organs before it's detected. Ovarian cancer spreads before it's detected in at least 20 percent of the cases, according to the Mayo Clinic. Ovarian cancer that spreads to the liver, one of the two most common sites for metastasis, before diagnosis becomes stage IV cancer, the most advanced stage. Thirteen percent of all ovarian cancers are diagnosed at that stage, according to Johns Hopkins University. Many symptoms of ovarian cancer and liver metastasis are similar.
General Symptoms
General symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite and a feeling of fullness without eating are common in ovarian cancer and liver metastasis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Abdominal Symptoms
Abdominal pain and swelling are classic symptoms of ovarian cancer. Cancer that has metastasized to the liver and ovarian cancer both cause abdominal fluid retention known as ascites. An increase in the girth of the abdomen, plus feelings of pressure, are common in both, according to the Mayo Clinic. Discomfort may also be felt in the back and pelvis. Nausea and constipation may occur in both ovarian cancer and liver metastasis.
Respiratory Symptoms
Because of the increased fluid in the abdomen, both ovarian cancer and liver metastasis can cause shortness of breath. Advanced ovarian cancer can also cause fluid to accumulate in the lining of the lungs.
Jaundice
A yellowish tinge to the skin and white of the eyes might occur after cancer metastasizes to the liver, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Vaginal and Urinary Symptoms
Ovarian cancer is associated with vaginal bleeding and pain during intercourse. Urinary frequency and urgency also are common in ovarian cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. Liver metastasis doesn't cause or worsen these symptoms.
