Risk factors and pathogenesis of malignant epithelial ovarian neoplasm: a literature review

Abstract

Epithelial carcinoma of the ovary is the second most common female genital tract neoplasm, representing 5% of neoplasms in women, according to international data. In Brazil, ovarian cancer occupies third place among neoplasms in females. Due to its prevalence and silent evolution, it is important to study the pathogenesis of this carcinoma, which leads to high mortality if not detected early, despite progress in management of the advanced disease. The current study aimed at a critical analysis of published previously research from indexed periodicals in the Medline and Scielo databases. There are various theories on carcinogenesis in the ovarian epithelial tissue, based on which we searched for information on protective factors, including: parity, breastfeeding, use of oral contraceptives, late menarche and early menopause, and surgical procedures such as hysterectomy, and tubal ligation. The principal factors related to increased risk are: use of ovulation-inducing drugs, high estrogen and androgen levels, and genetic and environmental factors. The epidemiological profile and identification of risk factors are still the best available resources for early detection of this disease, since thus far there are no programs to control the abovementioned risk factors. Screening with serum markers (CA-125) and ultrasound (transvaginal and pelvic) is recommended for women with a family history of ovarian cancer.