Stages and grades of ovarian cancer

Ovarian Cancer Stages and Grades

Ovarian cancer is diagnosed in one of four stages. The stage tells us how big the cancer is and how far it has spread in the body. Higher stages mean the cancer has spread more. The grade tells us how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope. Knowing the stage and grade helps you and your doctor discuss your treatment and what to expect.

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

Stage 1 Ovarian Cancer

• Stage 1 means the cancer is only in one or both ovaries. It hasn’t spread yet, and surgery is usually the main treatment.
  • Stage 1A: Cancer is in one ovary or fallopian tube.
  • Stage 1B: Cancer is in both ovaries or fallopian tubes.
  • Stage 1C: Cancer is in one or both ovaries or fallopian tubes and:
    • 1C1: Burst during surgery.
    • 1C2: Burst before surgery or on the surface.
    • 1C3: Cancer cells are in the fluid around the tummy or pelvis.

Stage 2 Ovarian Cancer

• Stage 2 means the cancer has spread to other parts of the pelvic area, like the womb, bladder, or bowel. Treatment usually includes surgery and chemotherapy.
  • Stage 2A: Cancer has spread to the fallopian tubes or womb.
  • Stage 2B: Cancer has spread to other pelvic organs like the rectum or bladder.

Stage 3 Ovarian Cancer

• Stage 3 means the cancer has spread beyond the pelvic area into the abdomen or lymph nodes. Treatment includes surgery and chemotherapy.
  • Stage 3A1: Cancer has spread to lymph nodes.
  • Stage 3A2: Cancer has spread to the tummy lining and maybe the lymph nodes.
  • Stage 3B: Cancer tumors are 2cm or smaller on the tummy lining and may be in lymph nodes.
  • Stage 3C: Cancer tumors are larger than 2cm on the tummy lining and may be in lymph nodes.

Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer

• Stage 4 means the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, like the brain, liver, or lungs. Treatment includes surgery and chemotherapy.
  • Stage 4A: Cancer cells are in the fluid around the lungs.
  • Stage 4B: Cancer has spread to the spleen, liver, lymph nodes outside the abdomen, or other organs like the lungs.

Grades of Ovarian Cancer

Cancer grades tell us how quickly the cancer might grow and spread. Higher grades mean the cancer cells look more abnormal and grow faster.

• Grade 1 (Low Grade): Cancer cells look similar to normal cells and grow slowly.
• Grade 2 (Moderate Grade): Cancer cells look more abnormal and grow faster than grade 1.
• Grade 3 (High Grade): Cancer cells look very abnormal and grow quickly. This is the most aggressive grade.

Understanding your cancer's stage and grade helps doctors plan the best treatment for you.