Diagnosed with stage 1c2 ovarian cancer 2 yrs ago. How often should i get a ct scan

Follow-Up Imaging After Stage 1C2 Ovarian Cancer

Thanks for sharing your history. This is an important question about surveillance after treatment.

What the Guidelines Say

According to NCCN Guidelines for Ovarian Cancer, the approach to follow-up imaging depends on:

1. Your treatment history — what surgery and chemotherapy you received
2. Your current disease status — whether you're in remission with no evidence of disease
3. Your symptoms — any new concerns that might warrant imaging

General Surveillance Approach

For patients with early-stage ovarian cancer (Stage I) who are in remission, the NCCN Guidelines recommend:

• Regular clinical evaluation by your oncologist (typically every 3-4 months initially, then less frequently over time)
• Imaging as clinically indicated — meaning imaging is ordered when there's a specific clinical reason (new symptoms, rising tumor markers, physical exam findings), rather than on a fixed routine schedule
• Tumor marker monitoring (like CA-125) if it was elevated at diagnosis

The guidelines emphasize that routine surveillance imaging is not automatically recommended for all early-stage patients in remission. Instead, imaging is typically ordered when:

• You develop new symptoms
• Tumor markers rise
• Your doctor finds something concerning on physical exam
• You're being evaluated for recurrence

What You Should Do

Questions to ask your oncologist at your next visit:

1. "Based on my specific treatment and current status, how often should I have imaging?"
2. "Are there specific symptoms I should watch for that would warrant a CT scan?"
3. "Are you monitoring my tumor markers (CA-125)? How often?"
4. "What's your surveillance plan for the next 1-2 years?"
5. "If I develop symptoms between visits, when should I contact you?"

Important Context

Every patient's situation is different. Your oncologist knows:

• Your exact pathology findings
• Whether you had chemotherapy
• Your response to treatment
• Any risk factors specific to your case

These factors all influence the best surveillance plan for you.

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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.

Source: NCCN Guidelines Version 3.2025 — Ovarian Cancer/Fallopian Tube Cancer/Primary Peritoneal Cancer