What is the most common malignancy diagnosed in pregnancy?

Study for the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) Qualifying Exam. Hone your skills with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy diagnosed in pregnancy due to several factors, including the relatively high incidence of breast cancer in the general population and the physiological changes that take place during pregnancy.

As breast tissue undergoes significant changes due to hormonal influences, these changes can sometimes lead to the early detection of lumps or other abnormalities that warrant further evaluation for cancer. Additionally, the diagnosis of breast cancer can occur during a time when there is increased surveillance due to routine prenatal care. While other cancers can occur during pregnancy, breast cancer has a higher prevalence and is often identified through screening or the emergence of symptoms that prompt further investigation.

Ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and placental cancer are less frequently diagnosed during pregnancy compared to breast cancer. Ovarian cancer tends to be rarer overall, cervical cancer is less common due to the effectiveness of screening programs, and placental cancer, while serious, presents in a different context and is not as prevalent as breast cancer diagnosed in pregnant women. Thus, breast cancer stands out as the most commonly diagnosed malignancy in the context of pregnancy.

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