Angiogenesis is a critical factor in the growth, progression, and metastatic spread of solid tumors. Angiogenic factors are soluble molecules released by the tumor itself and are able to induce an angiogenic response. Vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF) is a multifunctional cytokine that has been shown to be an important regulator of tumor angiogenesis. The aim of this study was to determine the value of serum VEGF levels in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer and in the differential diagnosis of adnexal masses. And we questioned whether the serum VEGF levels are related to cancer stages and prognosis of patients.

Serum samples were taken from 85 patients; healthy women(n=15), the patients with benign ovarian cyst(n=36), and the patients with ovarian cancer(n=34). The concentration of VEGF, CA-125, and CA 19-9 were determined in the serum of each patients before and after treatment with an enzyme linked immunoassay(EIA).

There are statistical differences among the serum VEGF levels in patients with ovarian cancer(491.5+/-335.6 pg/ml), and benign ovarian cyst (247.7+/-183.6 pg/ml)(p<0.05). The patients undergoing cancer therapy had lower values than those without cancer therapy(p<0.05). The serum VEGF levels were not correlated with the cancer stages and histologic types(p>0.05).

The serum VEGF level appears to be a helpful tool in the differential diagnosis of ovarian cancer and may help in predicting the therapeutic effects of patients with ovarian cancer.