High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) represents the most common form of
epithelial ovarian carcinoma. The absence of specific symptoms leads to late-stage diagnosis, making
HGSOC one of the gynecological cancers with the worst prognosis. The cellular origin of HGSOC
and the role of reproductive hormones, genetic traits (such as alterations in P53 and DNA-repair
mechanisms), chromosomal instability, or dysregulation of crucial signaling pathways have been
considered when evaluating prognosis and response to therapy in HGSOC patients. However, the
detection of HGSOC is still based on traditional methods such as carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125)
detection and ultrasound, and the combined use of these methods has yet to support significant
reductions in overall mortality rates. The current paradigm for HGSOC management has moved
towards early diagnosis via the non-invasive detection of molecular markers through liquid biopsies.
This review presents an integrated view of the relevant cellular and molecular aspects involved in the
etiopathogenesis of HGSOC and brings together studies that consider new horizons for the possible
early detection of this gynecological cancer.
