Modified Goff Symptom Index: Simple triage tool for ovarian malignancy

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Oncology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Ovarian cancer diagnosis is often delayed, leading to poorer outcomes.
• The Goff Symptom Index (GSI) is a tool for symptom assessment.
• Validation in diverse populations is crucial for diagnostic tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate a modified Goff Symptom Index (MGSI) in an Indian population.
• To assess the efficacy of additional symptoms in improving early ovarian cancer detection.

Main Methods:

• Prospective case-control study (n=292) in India (2010-2012).
• Utilized a modified GSI assessing 10 original and 4 new symptoms (severity, frequency, duration).
• Histopathology confirmed ovarian tumor diagnoses.

Main Results:

• The MGSI showed higher positive rates in ovarian cancer patients (71.6%) versus controls (11.5%).
• Adding loss of appetite and weight symptoms increased sensitivity from 71.6% to 77%.
• Specificity remained high (88.5%) with the added symptoms.

Conclusions:

• The modified GSI, incorporating loss of appetite and weight, enhances sensitivity for ovarian cancer detection.
• Further validation is needed for the inclusion of urinary symptoms in the GSI.
• This modified index shows promise for earlier ovarian cancer diagnosis in Indian women.