Worried about return of cancer

[Candybonnylass]

I had ovarian cancer in 2016 i had complete removal of everything but I was told no follow on treatment was required all I get is a blood test every six months is this normal I worry about the cancer coming back as o have heard it is common for it to return can any of you kind people advise me on this please x

[mizpurple]

I think all of us on this forum fear recurrence. Ovarian is a scary disease to deal with and really knocks you off your balance. However, if your original cancer was caught at an early stage, and depending on the subtype it was (mucinous, clear cell, etc), watch-and-wait may be the most appropriate course. In your position, I might ask about adding an occasional CAT or PET scan to confirm that you are still NED (no evidence of disease). Chemo is hard on the body and side effects can be miserable to deal with. Your oncologist can always bring in the big guns when they are warranted, as long as you are being monitored appropriately. You might focus your efforts on improving or maintaining your general health as best you can, including your mental health. That would serve you well in any eventuality and be a concrete POSITIVE action you can take. Easier said than done, I know... All the best to you! Deb in Colorado

[Candybonnylass in reply to mizpurple]

I live in Scotland all I have ever seen is a gynaecologist I have never seen an oncologist ever and I get i blood test every six months for Ca125 all they ever say is it is within the normal range and that is all the information I gat back in a letter two weeks after I get the blood test done I feel not enough information is given But I would like to thank you for taking time to help me with your reply think I might have to ask more questions xxx

[Nkita]

The blood test is how they monitor for reoccurrence. My wife gets a blood test every month also. The test monitors CA 125 which can be a somewhat reliable indicator of OC. She had a scan after chemo. I think if if the blood shows rising CA 125 then they would do a scan. You may want to get more information from you doc about the blood test. I hope this helps. Maybe someone else can add to that. As mizpurple said you might want to ask about the scan.

[Candybonnylass in reply to Nkita]

Ty for taking time replying to me much appreciated xxx

[KCWM in reply to Candybonnylass]

My CA 125 is always good (25) but it was the HE4 blood test ( I do not see anybody posting about this blood test) done at Mayo Clinic that was rising and therefore a scan was ordered I was having my first recurrence in the lymph nodes. Had another series of 6 chemos last summer. Now in remission. Thankful for the HE4.