Ovarian Cancer Biomarkers: Headway Towards Early Diagnosis

Abstract

The advancements in cancer treatment have no significant effect on ovarian cancer [OC]. The lethality of the OC remains on the top list of gynecological cancers. The long term survival rate of the OC patients with the advanced stage is less than 30%. The only effective measure to increase the survivability of the patient is the detection of disease in stage I. The earlier the diagnosis, the more will be the chances of survival of the patient. But due to the absence of symptoms and effective diagnosis, only a few % of OC are detected in stage I. A valid, reliable having a high acceptance test is imperative to detect OC in its early stages. Currently, the most used approach for the detection of OC is the screening of CA-125 and transvaginal ultrasonography together. This approach has an efficacy of only 30-45%. A large number of biomarkers are also being explored for their potential use in the early screening of OC, but no success is seen so far. This review provides an overview of the biomarkers being explored for early-stage diagnosis of OC and increasing the current long-term survival rates of OC patients.