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Updated: May 13, 2026
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Murine Model for Non-invasive Imaging to Detect and Monitor Ovarian Cancer Recurrence
Published on: November 2, 2014
Screening for ovarian cancer
K J Carlson1, S J Skates, D E Singer
1Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston.
Annals of Internal Medicine
|July 15, 1994
Summary
Screening asymptomatic women for ovarian cancer using ultrasound or CA 125 tests is not recommended. Current evidence shows high false-positive rates and no proven reduction in ovarian cancer mortality.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic oncology
- Diagnostic test evaluation
- Preventive medicine
Background:
- Ovarian cancer remains a significant health concern.
- Effective screening strategies are crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review evidence on screening asymptomatic women for ovarian cancer.
- Evaluate the utility of ultrasonography and CA 125 radioimmunoassay (CA 125) for ovarian cancer screening.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE and bibliographies.
- Inclusion of observational studies, meta-analyses, randomized trials, and mathematical models.
- Focus on ovarian cancer risk, test characteristics, treatment effectiveness, and mortality outcomes.
Main Results:
- Age and family history are key ovarian cancer risk factors.
- Screening asymptomatic women over 50 without family history yields over 30 false positives per cancer detected.
- No direct evidence shows screening reduces ovarian cancer mortality; false positives may lead to invasive procedures.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence does not support screening women without a family history of ovarian cancer.
- Routine screening is not advised for women with a family history unless a hereditary cancer syndrome is present.
- Women with hereditary ovarian cancer syndromes require referral to a gynecologic oncologist.
