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How do doctors confirm a diagnosis of ovarian cancer?

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Detailed cross-sectional illustration of a human ovary showing the stages of follicle development, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation, with labeled structures including primordial, primary, secondary, and mature follicles, a ruptured follicle releasing an ovum, and corpus luteum and albicans. An inset at the bottom shows the ovary's location in the female reproductive system. — ovary The steps of ovulation, beginning with a dormant primordial follicle that grows and matures and is eventually released from the ovary into the fallopian tube.

The diagnosis of ovarian cancer begins with a thorough physical examination, including a pelvic exam. To support a suspected diagnosis, doctors may use a blood test to measure levels of the molecule CA-125, though elevated levels can also be caused by other disorders.12

To detect potential tumors, physicians utilize diagnostic imaging procedures, such as:

X-rays12
Computed tomography (CT) scans12
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)12
Ultrasound12

While these methods assist in identifying abnormalities, it is important to note that only a biopsy can definitively confirm a diagnosis of ovarian cancer.12