Ms. Minh, 50, sought medical attention for severe lower abdominal pain, bloating, and vomiting. Doctors subsequently diagnosed a large ovarian tumor that was compressing her stomach and ureter, highlighting the critical need for early detection of such conditions.

Doctor Ha Ngoc Dai, from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Center at Tam Anh Hanoi General Hospital, reported the tumor measured approximately 330x320x180 mm. It contained solid tissue masses and calcified nodules. This prolonged growth compressed and displaced the stomach, intestines, and her right ureter. The compression led to dilation of the right renal pelvis and ureter, thinning the right kidney parenchyma to about 9 mm from a normal 12 mm. Imaging also revealed fluid around the tumor and liver.

During surgery, doctors observed that the patient's uterus was significantly enlarged, similar to a 12-week pregnancy, occupying most of the abdominal cavity and deforming pelvic and abdominal structures. The surgical team aspirated about 9 liters of brown fluid from the tumor. The inner surface showed many large papillary growths, raising suspicion of malignancy.

A frozen section biopsy, performed by the team, confirmed the tumor as high-grade serous adenocarcinoma, a type accounting for about 90% of ovarian cancer cases. To ensure radical treatment, the patient underwent a total hysterectomy, removal of the left ovary, both fallopian tubes, and the greater omentum. Specialized tests are ongoing to determine the specific cancer type, stage, and to develop a tailored treatment plan.

Doctor Dai reviewing Ms. Minh's medical records. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Doctor Dai emphasized that ovarian tumors, when not detected early, can grow substantially, compressing nearby organs like the intestines, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. This can lead to complications such as torsion, rupture, or internal bleeding. Ms. Minh's case underscores this risk, as she had not undergone a gynecological examination for 20 years after giving birth.

Early-stage ovarian tumor symptoms are often non-specific, making them easy to confuse with common digestive or urinary tract conditions. Patients may experience bloating, abdominal distension, early satiety, pelvic pain, frequent urination, or an increase in abdominal circumference.

Doctor Dai advises women to undergo regular gynecological check-ups every 6-12 months, especially after the age of 40 or during pre-menopause and menopause. If unusual symptoms persist, such as prolonged abdominal pain, rapid abdominal enlargement, frequent bloating, urinary dysfunction, or abnormal menstruation, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial.

Trinh Mai