High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer-A Risk Factor Puzzle and Screening Fugitive

Area of Science:

• Gynecologic Oncology
• Cancer Pathophysiology
• Biomarker Discovery

Background:

• High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) remains the deadliest female genital tract malignancy.
• Current understanding of HGSOC pathophysiology and risk factors is incomplete, hindering effective screening.
• Delayed diagnosis due to lack of screening leads to chemo-resistance and high recurrence rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review established and emerging risk factors for HGSOC in diverse patient populations.
• To explore advanced diagnostic and predictive methods for early HGSOC detection.
• To propose a comprehensive future approach for ovarian cancer screening and diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of classic and novel risk factors for HGSOC.
• Analysis of diagnostic and predictive modalities including serum biomarkers, liquid biopsy (circulating tumor cells/DNA), epigenetic markers, exosomes, and genomic/proteomic biomarkers.
• Discussion of a proposed complex diagnostic strategy.

Main Results:

• Identified a range of classic and novel risk factors contributing to HGSOC development.
• Detailed various promising biomarkers and techniques for early detection and prediction.
• Highlighted the potential of a multi-modal diagnostic approach.

Conclusions:

• There is an urgent need for improved screening programs for HGSOC.
• Novel biomarkers and diagnostic technologies offer potential for earlier detection and personalized risk assessment.
• A future complex diagnostic strategy integrating multiple approaches is essential for improving HGSOC outcomes.