Great question! Understanding the difference between high-grade and low-grade ovarian cancer can help make sense of a diagnosis and what to expect.
Grade describes how abnormal cancer cells look under a microscope compared to healthy cells. The more abnormal they look, the higher the grade. Low-Grade Ovarian Cancer
Low-grade Show Full Answer
Great question! Understanding the difference between high-grade and low-grade ovarian cancer can help make sense of a diagnosis and what to expect.
Grade describes how abnormal cancer cells look under a microscope compared to healthy cells. The more abnormal they look, the higher the grade. Low-Grade Ovarian Cancer
Low-grade cancer cells look more similar to normal, healthy cells. Here's what's generally known:
- Cells grow more slowly and in a more orderly way
- Tends to have a better outlook
- More common in younger women (average diagnosis age of 43)
- Makes up about 6–8% of all ovarian cancers
- Less aggressive and often easier to treat High-Grade Ovarian Cancer
High-grade cancer cells look very abnormal under a microscope. Key points include:
- Cells grow faster and spread more quickly
- Generally has a worse outlook
- Most common type — about 75% of epithelial ovarian cancers are high-grade
- Often diagnosed at a later stage because early symptoms can be vague
- Usually requires a more aggressive treatment plan It's worth noting that grade is just one piece of the puzzle. Stage, cancer type, and individual health factors all play a role in determining the best treatment plan. A gynecologic oncologist will consider all of these together.
August 12
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