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South Chicago Area Ovarian Cancer Care

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Ovarian cancer, a type of gynecologic cancer, most often develops in the protective tissue that covers one or both ovaries called epithelial tissue. Although there are many types of ovarian cancer, including germ cell and stromal tumors, ovarian epithelial cancer is the most common, accounting for about 90% of all ovarian cancer patients. This type of cancer typically occurs in postmenopausal women who tend to be aged 50 and up.

The oncologists of the Gynecologic Cancer Institute of Chicago, a division of Affiliated Oncologists, provide the most advanced treatments for women’s reproductive cancers, including robot-assisted surgery.

Our Gynecologic Oncologists

Alfred Guirguis, DO, MPH

Carrie McIlwain, MD, MPH

Nikki Neubauer, MD

Molly Roy, MD

What to Expect if You Were Diagnosed With Ovarian Cancer

Gynecologic oncologists lead the treatment plan for ovarian cancer. They are experts in treating cancers that develop in the female reproductive organs and are trained in the latest surgical methods and other treatments included in an effective treatment plan. If you are in the south Chicago area, we offer gynecologic oncology appointments in Downers Grove and Oak Lawn, IL.

The purpose of your first appointment with a gynecologic oncologist is to evaluate your specific diagnosis of ovarian cancer and create a treatment plan tailored to you. Before your appointment, our cancer care team will review your medical records to understand your specific needs. It’s also helpful to review information about this type of cancer to prepare a list of questions.

In addition to your gynecologic oncologist, who also serves as the surgeon, your cancer care team will likely include a radiation oncologist, advanced practice providers such as a nurse practitioner or physician assistant, and oncology nurses. Additional cancer care professionals are available to assist our patients with the emotional and mental challenges of cancer treatment.

Find a Gynecologic Oncologist

Understanding Ovarian Cancer

The gynecologic oncologists at Affiliated Oncologists consider many factors before recommending a personalized ovarian cancer treatment plan.

Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis

There are several tests used to determine if ovarian cancer is present and the specific type of ovarian cancer. Because there are so few symptoms, ovarian cancer is typically diagnosed at a later stage.

Diagnosis

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

The stage of ovarian cancer describes how much it has grown and if it has impacted the lymph nodes or other areas of the body. The gynecologic oncologist gathers some of the staging information during surgery to remove the cancer. There may also be more tests required to finalize the cancer’s stage, which directs the treatment plan.

Staging

Treatment Options for Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer treatment options depend on the stage and whether the cancer can be entirely removed during surgery. The gynecologic oncologist will create a personalized treatment plan. Treatment will likely be different for women who have not gone through menopause and wish to grow their families in the future. Discussing these concerns with your cancer specialist as early as possible is important.

Treatment Options

find a gyn oncologist at AO in south chicago

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Ovarian Cancer Doctors in the South Chicago Suburbs

Our gynecologic cancer team offers a comprehensive approach to ovarian cancer treatment. It uses the most advanced treatments and surgical procedures in combination with support for your emotional and mental challenges experienced throughout cancer treatment.

Our gynecologic oncologists are located in Downers Grove and Oak Lawn, Illinois.

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