MyOvarianCancerTeam

Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is a rare subtype of ovarian cancer. It gets its name from how the cells look under a microscope — they appear transparent or "clear." It tends to be diagnosed at a younger age than some other types, with an average diagnosis age of 55.

It affects different groups at different rates:

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Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is a rare subtype of ovarian cancer. It gets its name from how the cells look under a microscope — they appear transparent or "clear." It tends to be diagnosed at a younger age than some other types, with an average diagnosis age of 55.

It affects different groups at different rates:

- About 11.1% of epithelial ovarian cancers in Asian women are OCCC
- About 4.8% in white women
- About 3.1% in Black women Causes and Risk Factors

OCCC is linked to gene mutations, including changes in genes called ARID1A, PIK3CA, and PTEN. These cause cells to grow abnormally and form tumors.

The biggest known risk factor is endometriosis — about half of people with OCCC have it. Researchers believe that tissue growing outside the uterus can develop cancer-causing mutations over time. Symptoms

OCCC shares many symptoms with other ovarian cancers, including:

- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Back pain
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent urination
- Nausea or indigestion
- Fatigue
- Changes in menstrual periods

One important thing to be aware of: OCCC carries a higher risk of blood clots, so it's worth discussing this with a care team. Diagnosis

Doctors typically use a combination of tools to diagnose OCCC:

- Pelvic exam
- Blood tests (checking CA-125 protein levels)
- Imaging like ultrasound, CT, or MRI
- Biopsy during surgery to confirm cancer type and stage

OCCC is more likely to be caught early — between 57% and 81% of cases are found at stage 1 or 2. Treatment

Treatment is similar to other epithelial ovarian cancers and usually starts with surgery. The plan depends on factors like age, overall health, cancer stage, and future family plans.

OCCC can sometimes respond less well to standard chemotherapy, but doctors may recommend adding Avastin (bevacizumab) alongside it. Clinical trials are also actively exploring new targeted therapies for OCCC. Prognosis

Outlook depends heavily on the stage at diagnosis:

- Stage 1: ~84.6% five-year survival rate
- Stage 2: ~66.1% five-year survival rate
- Stage 3: ~31.5% five-year survival rate
- Stage 4: ~12.5% five-year survival rate

Early detection makes a real difference, which is why staying on top of follow-up appointments matters so much.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Clear Cell Carcinoma: Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Management