Family history of ovarian carcinoma

A patient with a parent who carries the genetic form of ovarian cancer has a 1:3 risk of contracting ovarian cancer themselves. Investigations include measurement of serum marker CA 125 and transvaginal ultrasound screening.

Screening is appropriate for

Families with a history of ovarian cancer
Screening recommended for women with a family history of ovarian cancer in two 1st or 2nd degree relatives of any age and also in women with an affected identical twin.
Families with a history of ovarian and breast cancer
Screening recommended for women with a family history of ovarian cancer in one first degree relative with breast and ovarian cancer and also in women with two or more relatives with breast and/or ovarian cancer.
Lynch syndrome
Hereditary (autosomal dominant) non-polyposis colon cancer, ovarian and uterine cancer. Family history of early age onset tumours at a variety of sites. Bowel, uterine and ovarian screening recommended.

Patients should be referred to the Northern Genetics Service. A family tree will be constructed and the patient will be referred on to the most appropriate transvaginal ultrasound facility.