An ovarian mass means that one or both of the ovaries have been enlarged by a solid tumor, fluid-filled cyst, or some combination of the two. Ovarian masses form when the normal process of cell growth and division goes wrong. Sometimes new cells form without the body needing them, and sometimes old cells don’t die when they should. When cysts or tumors form, they should be checked by Dr. Ayalon to be identified as cancerous or not.
It’s important to understand that not all ovarian masses are cancer. Benign tumors and cysts are rarely life threatening, do not spread to other parts of the body, and can usually be removed without growing back. However, if Dr. Ayalon finds that the ovarian mass is malignant, the situation is much more serious. Malignant tumors and cysts are cancer, and they can definitely be life threatening.
Ovarian mass that is cancerous must be dealt with as quickly as possible to prevent it from spreading and invading other parts of the body. Surgery is often one of the best options when it comes to cancerous growths.