Hi all, I’m not quite sure how to start, but I wanted to share my story. I was recently diagnosed with ovarian cancer – immature teratoma, grade 3. I’m now waiting for my consultant appointment to go through more tests and investigations for staging, and to find out what the treatment plan will be.
I’m still in shock. About 7 weeks ago I had surgery and was told it was just a dermoid cyst, that everything had gone well, and that no follow-up was needed. Then, 6 weeks later, I got a call to say the biopsy showed it was actually an immature teratoma and that I have cancer.
I’ve always been healthy and active, so this has come as a huge shock. I’d never even heard of this type of cancer before, and I’m trying my best to process the news and cope with all the uncertainty.
I thought it might help to connect here, as I’m not sure what to expect and would really appreciate hearing from others who have been through something similar. Thank you AnaV
Hi Ana
Welcome to the Ovarian group.
I am sorry to hear that you have had a diagnosis of a grade 3 teratoma. I understand what a worrying time it is.
My own cancer was endometrial but they are often treated in a similar way. I was also a grade 3.
When a cancer is found to be present after surgery then it is usual to investigate further. They need to check that all the cancer was removed.
What will normally happen now is a CT and/or MRI will be done to confirm that there is no cancer left anywhere. If it shows that the cancer was contained within the ovary- then it would be classified as an early stage cancer. If there is any sign of any spread then further treatment could depend on where it is. Sometimes this could mean further surgery, sometimes it could mean a follow up treatment such as chemo. My own experience with a grade 3 gynae cancer (mine was early stage) some form of follow up seems to be considered to effectively mop up any stray cells that may have been left behind.
What I would expect now is for the scans to take place and then for you to be given an appointment- hopefully within a couple of weeks of the scans to meet with your consultant to discuss what treatment, if any would be advisable.
I know it is tough to wait but hopefully you will know more soon. In the meantime if chatting things though would help then please do give the Support Line a call. They are there from 8am-8pm each day.
Jane
