Living with Ovarian small cell carcinoma
A rare cancer of the ovary that typically occurs in young women and can spread to other parts of the body.
Understanding Ovarian small cell carcinoma
This cancer can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. There are two types: hypercalcemic (high calcium in the blood) and pulmonary. About two-thirds of people with this cancer have the hypercalcemic type. It can appear at a variety of ages.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms are fairly general and are similar to other types of ovarian cancer. GARD lists these:
- Bloating
- Pelvic or belly pain
- Changes in appetite
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include cancer specialists, gynecologic cancer specialists, maternal-fetal medicine specialists and women’s reproductive health specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Cancer specialists (oncologists); Gynecologic cancer specialists (gynecologic oncologists); Maternal-fetal medicine specialists (pregnancy-related); Women’s reproductive health specialists (obstetricians / gynecologists)
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with National Ovarian Cancer Coalition and other patient organizations
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD doesn't describe a cause for this condition yet.
Also known as: ovarian small cell cancer; ovarian small cell nec; ovarian small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma; ovary small cell carcinoma; scco; small cell carcinoma of ovary
Patient organizations
- National Ovarian Cancer CoalitionOvarian small cell carcinoma · United States
- Ovarian Cancer Research AllianceOvarian small cell carcinoma · United States
- American Cancer SocietyGynecological tumors · United States
- SHARE: Cancer SupportGynecological tumors · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Ovarian small cell carcinoma.
Explore research for Ovarian small cell carcinoma
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- Eligibility is confirmed by the study team
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