Not Every Large Tumour Is Cancer: A World Cancer Day Message of Awareness and Hope

On the occasion of World Cancer Day, Wockhardt Hospitals, Nagpur shares a powerful case that reinforces an important but often overlooked truth—not all large tumours are cancerous, and early medical evaluation can make a life-changing difference.

A 35-year-old woman recently approached Wockhardt Hospitals with complaints of rapidly increasing abdominal swelling over just one month. Like many patients facing such symptoms, fear and uncertainty were inevitable. A contrast-enhanced CT scan revealed a massive abdominal tumour measuring 25 × 22 × 17 cm, occupying a large portion of the abdomen and pressing against vital organs such as the urinary bladder and ureters. The initial suspicion was an ovarian tumour, raising concern about possible malignancy.

However, comprehensive investigations, including tumour marker tests for ovarian cancer, returned negative results, offering cautious optimism. Given the tumour’s size and proximity to critical organs, the patient was scheduled for surgery with preparedness for cancer management if required.

The surgery was led by Dr. Sagar Bhalerao, Consultant Surgical Oncologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Nagpur, and his experienced multidisciplinary team. During the operation, the team encountered an unexpected finding. Contrary to imaging suggestions, both ovaries appeared completely normal, and the uterus was seen above the tumour. Careful exploration revealed that the tumour was not arising from the ovary, but from the posterior wall of the uterus—an uncommon presentation of a very common condition.

The tumour, weighing approximately 7.4 kg, was meticulously dissected from vital structures including the aorta, inferior vena cava, ureters, and bowel, highlighting the complexity of the surgery. A total hysterectomy was performed to ensure complete removal. While one ovary had to be removed due to compromised blood supply caused by prolonged stretching, the other ovary was successfully preserved.

The tumour was sent for frozen section biopsy during surgery, a crucial step to determine its nature. The results brought immense relief—the tumour was a leiomyoma (fibroid), a benign condition. Final histopathology later confirmed the same diagnosis.

Dr. Sagar Bhalerao said,

“This case is a reminder that the abdomen can always surprise us. Size alone does not determine cancer. With timely diagnosis, expert evaluation, and careful surgical planning, even complex cases can have positive outcomes.”

On World Cancer Day, this case serves as a vital message for the public. Persistent symptoms such as abdominal swelling, pain, or sudden bodily changes should never be ignored. While fear of cancer often delays consultation, early medical attention can not only detect cancer at a treatable stage but can also rule it out, sparing patients unnecessary anxiety.

Wockhardt Hospitals, Nagpur continues to emphasize awareness, early diagnosis, and patient-centric care. This case stands as a testament to how expertise, technology, and timely intervention can restore health and hope.

As World Cancer Day reminds us—awareness saves lives, and sometimes, it also brings the reassurance that cancer is not always the diagnosis.