A pelvic ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging test that can help detect several types of cancer affecting the female reproductive organs and surrounding areas. This non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to create images of structures within the pelvis, allowing healthcare professionals to identify abnormalities that may indicate the presence of cancer.
Cancers Detectable by Pelvic Ultrasound
A pelvic ultrasound is a valuable tool for identifying suspicious masses or changes in the size and shape of organs in the pelvic region. It is often one of the initial tests performed when cancer is suspected. The specific cancers that a pelvic ultrasound can help diagnose include:
| Organ/Area | Type of Cancer |
|---|---|
| Ovaries | Ovarian cancer |
| Fallopian Tubes | Fallopian tube cancer |
| Peritoneum | Peritoneal cancer (cancer of the lining of the abdomen and pelvis) |
| Womb (Uterus) | Womb cancer (also known as uterine or endometrial cancer) |
| Pregnancy-related | Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) |
How a Pelvic Ultrasound Assists in Diagnosis
During a pelvic ultrasound, a transducer (a small, handheld device) is used to send high-frequency sound waves through the body. These sound waves bounce off internal organs and tissues, creating echoes that are then converted into real-time images displayed on a monitor.
For cancer detection, the ultrasound can reveal:
- Tumors or masses: Identifying abnormal growths or solid masses in or around the pelvic organs.
- Organ enlargement: Detecting unusual swelling or changes in the size of the ovaries, uterus, or fallopian tubes.
- Fluid accumulation: Noticing abnormal fluid collections, which can sometimes be associated with certain cancers.
- Structural changes: Observing any irregularities in the texture or structure of the organs.
While a pelvic ultrasound can detect suspicious findings, it typically cannot definitively diagnose cancer on its own. If abnormalities are found, further tests such as blood tests, CT scans, MRIs, or biopsies are usually required to confirm a cancer diagnosis and determine its type and stage. It serves as an important screening and initial diagnostic tool, guiding subsequent investigations.
