Which type of ovarian cancer is more prominent among patients?

Ovarian epithelial cancer is the most common type of ovarian cancer and is primarily classified into several subtypes, including serous, mucinous, endometrioid, and clear cell carcinomas. It originates from the epithelial cells that line the surface of the ovary. This type of cancer accounts for approximately 90% of all ovarian cancer cases, making it significantly more prevalent than other types.

The reasons for its prominence are multifaceted, including factors related to the biology and location of epithelial cells, as well as genetic predispositions in some women. The early-stage detection of ovarian epithelial cancer is often challenging, which contributes to the higher rates observed at diagnosis compared to other types, where presentation and growth patterns may differ.

Germ cell tumors, while important and present in younger patients, represent a smaller portion of ovarian cancer cases. Thymomas and neuroendocrine carcinoma are not directly related to ovarian cancer as they originate from different tissues—thymus and neuroendocrine cells, respectively, making them not applicable as common types of ovarian cancer. This context underscores why ovarian epithelial cancer stands out as the most common form encountered among patients.