MHCN-GYN-Oncology

Make the best decisions about your cancer care with unmatched expertise from MedStar Health's top-ranked gynecologic oncologists in Baltimore and Bel Air.

When you are diagnosed with cancer, your world turns upside down. But your family, friends, and colleagues depend on you. You need an accurate diagnosis, the best treatment, and the most efficient care from providers who can get you back to your busy life close to home.

Whether you are newly diagnosed, had an abnormal Pap smear, or are seeking a second opinion, you won’t have to wait to get answers and peace of mind.

Our medical and surgical oncologists bring the most advanced gynecologic cancer innovations close to home. With the latest treatments and technologies at our fingertips, you’ll get personalized care from nationally recognized experts who take the time to understand you and your unique situation.

Now, as part of the MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute, we offer patients even greater access to the latest clinical trials and state-of-the art technologies. We offer second-opinion appointments within 48 hours. Get the answers and support you need, close to home.

To make an appointment call

443-777-7990,

Request an Appointment

At MedStar Health, you will get:

Convenient access to cancer experts.

We’re the region’s largest healthcare provider. Offering multiple locations across the region, you’re never far from one of our exceptional physicians. Those with a family history of gynecologic or other cancers may benefit from meeting with a board-certified genetic counselor who can advise them on risk mitigation and prevention strategies.

To make an appointment call

443-777-7990,

Request an Appointment

Expert information about your type of cancer.

When you are first diagnosed, you and your family will have a lot of questions. We will guide you through finding the answers. Start with the information below about your cancer type, and jot down questions to ask when you visit with our team.

Uterine or endometrial cancer
Uterine (endometrial) cancer is the most common type of cancer we see—more than 66,000 patients develop uterine cancer each year. However, it is generally highly curable since it is often caught early.

There are three types of uterine cancer:

Estrogen-sensitive, which is related to obesity and diabetes

Genetic or environmental, which is more aggressive and typically occurs in older patients. Approximately 2-5% of uterine cancers are associated with Lynch syndrome, a common genetic mutation. All MedStar Health Cancer Network patients with uterine cancer receive genetic testing.

Sarcoma, an aggressive, soft-tissue tumor. African-American patients are more prone to develop sarcomas, which can be more difficult to treat.

Uterine cancer is typically treated with robotic surgery. Immunotherapy is now a standard of care for advanced stage uterine cancer. Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) helps boost the body’s immune response to cancer. The targeted drug lenvatinib (Lenvima) can be added to detect and destroy uterine cancer cells.
Dr. Irina Tunnage – Service Specific (Endometrial Cancer)

In this video, Irina Tunnage, DO, MHS, a fellowship-trained gynecologic oncologist at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, talks about endometrial cancer, the number one GYN cancer in the U.S. Dr. Tunnage and her expert colleagues at MedStar Health offer the most advanced treatments to fight this disease, including innovative surgical techniques, specially targeted therapies, the latest radiation oncology approaches, and access to groundbreaking treatment options through clinical trials.
Ovarian cancer
Though fewer than 25,000 patients are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, it causes approximately half of deaths due to gynecologic cancer. Approximately 75% of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. There is currently no standard screening for ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer causes symptoms that can be easily mistaken for gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating or indigestion. However, if these symptoms last for a few weeks, visit your doctor for a pelvic exam and ultrasound.

Ovarian cancer can be hereditary. Many gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are associated with ovarian cancer, so we recommend patients visit with a genetic counselor.

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most common type, arising from cells in the lining of the ovaries. Ovarian cancer can also arise from the fallopian tubes, abdominal lining (peritoneal), or germ cells (pre-egg cells), or granulosa cells that produce estrogen (usually in younger women).

New, innovative treatment options:

Immunotherapy, which uses the body’s immune system to eliminate cancer cells.

PARP-inhibitor maintenance therapy, which prevents cancer cells from repairing themselves.
Cervical cancer

The cervix is the tissue between your uterus and vagina, which the doctor checks during a Pap smear. If cells collected for the smear look abnormal, the gynecologist will refer you to be checked for cancer.

Getting an annual women’s health exam can help patients avoid cervical cancer or catch it early, when it is most treatable. Pre-cancerous cells and small tumors can be removed with surgery. Advanced cervical cancers typically require chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

Fewer than 20,000 women in the U.S. develop cervical cancer each year. It is not hereditary and is not caused by estrogen. Cervical cancer is commonly associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV). While HPV infection is harmless in most patients, in some it leads to cervical cancer. With the development of the HPV vaccine, the rates of cervical cancers have decreased, but screening remains important even for women who have been vaccinated."
Vaginal and vulvar cancer

The vulva is the outside of the genital area, and the vagina is the inside. These cancers typically appear as lesions on the skin or inside the vagina. Both are related to HPV and lifestyle choices, such as smoking.

Vaginal and vulvar cancers are rare, with fewer than 14,000 cases diagnosed each year. MedStar Health Cancer Network sees many patients with an abnormal Pap smear after hysterectomy or vaginal or vulvar dysplasia (VAIN or VIN), which are lesions or skin changes that are suspicious for cancer.

Vaginal and vulvar cancer treatment usually involves surgery, along with sentinel lymph node tracking, chemotherapy, and/or radiation.

Advanced, innovative treatment options.

Swift, personalized treatment leads to quicker, potentially more successful outcomes. We use the most advanced technology to diagnose and stage your cancer.

At our academic medical center, you will have access to cutting-edge, world-class treatment options that are not widely available, including:

Minimally invasive cancer surgery: Advanced techniques such as robotic surgery give patients exceptional results with less pain, scarring, and recovery time than traditional surgery.
Advanced chemotherapy: Refined, closely monitored chemo can effectively destroy cancer cells throughout the body, alone or in combination with surgery.
Immunotherapy: This innovative therapy trains your body's immune system to recognize, surround and destroy cancer cells.
Lymph node tracing: Using a special dye, we can determine whether a gynecologic cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. We can remove affected lymph nodes, improving patient outcomes.

Targeted radiation therapy: Highly focused radiation techniques can effectively shrink tumors and destroy cancer cells in fewer, less invasive treatments.
Fertility and hormone therapy: Women who want to have children after cancer treatment may have options for fertility-sparing procedures and egg harvesting. We work closely with reproductive endocrinologists to determine the safest, most effective options to preserve fertility and balance the hormones while treating your cancer.
Clinical trials: Thanks to our partnership with Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, you will have access to innovative clinical trials and the latest breakthroughs in cancer treatment.

To make an appointment call

443-777-7990,

Request an Appointment

Expert cancer team. Exceptional results.

Our specialists from MedStar Health Cancer Network are internationally recognized in cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment. We are consistently named "Top Docs" by Baltimore magazine. Our award-winning team holds Accreditation with Commendation, the highest level of approval from the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer.

Every patient benefits from the collective expertise of our multidisciplinary team, which meets weekly to review every patient's case. We combine our skills so you get the best care for your unique needs. Meet your cancer care team.

Ali Mahdavi, MD
Gynecologic Oncologist

Irina Tunnage, DO, MHS
Gynecologic Oncologist

Mounika Gangireddy, MD
Medical Oncologist

Shweta Kurian, MD
Medical Oncologist

Katherine Chen, MD
Radiation Oncologist

Kelly Orwat, MD
Radiation Oncologist

Emily Kuchinsky, MS, CGC
Certified Genetic Counselor

Hannah Stutzman, MS
Genetic Counselor

Expert Cancer Team

Ali Mahdavi, MD
Gynecologic Oncologist

Ali Mahdavi, MD

Ali Mahdavi, MD, is a board-certified gynecologic oncologist at MedStar Health. He provides comprehensive care for women diagnosed with cancers of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, and vulva. Dr. Mahdavi also performs complex surgical procedures for non-cancerous gynecologic conditions, with a focus on techniques to optimize surgical outcomes, quality of life and faster recovery after surgery.

Dr. Mahdavi is one of just a few physicians in the U.S. who completed both a minimally invasive surgery fellowship as well as comprehensive gynecologic oncology training. He offers both robotic and conventional laparoscopic approaches for the surgical treatment of gynecological cancers. Additionally, he has expertise in performing cytoreductive surgery (also known as debulking surgery) for women diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer. This procedure aims to remove as much cancerous tissue as possible from the pelvis and surrounding organs (intestines, upper abdominal cavity, and urinary organs) to optimize response to chemotherapy. Dr. Mahdavi has a vested interest in robotic lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node biopsy for uterine and cervical cancers. These advanced procedures promote preservation of the unaffected lymph nodes and are known to minimize complications such as leg swelling and infection. Preventive and risk-reducing surgeries for women who have a strong family history of breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers are another area of specialty for Dr. Mahdavi.

Dr. Mahdavi advocates for targeted and personalized approaches to care for his patients, applying novel treatments that kill cancer cells at the molecular level while minimizing negative impact on surrounding healthy organs and tissue. In addition to his work in the clinical field, he has made medical education a key career priority. He had served as a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, where he taught resident physicians and medical students. He also served as a clinical instructor at the University of California Irvine School of Medicine and the University of Tennessee’s Division of Health Sciences. Dr. Mahdavi is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and is a member of the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists and the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists.

Philosophy of Care:“I focus on the individual needs of my patients and strive to offer outstanding clinical care in an environment that is convenient, caring, and personalized. My goal is to make sure my patients feel confident they have someone on their side whom they can trust, every step of the way through their cancer treatment. I strongly believe that collaboration and teamwork are critically important to provide the best possible care to patients. I am fortunate to work with a team of dedicated oncology specialists at MedStar Health, who are all committed to providing the highest level of care and access to clinical trials for women diagnosed with cancer.”

Dr. Mahdavi sees patients at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and MedStar Health Bel Air Medical Campus.

Irina Tunnage, DO, MHS
Gynecologic Oncologist

Irina Tunnage, DO, MHS

Irina Tunnage, DO, MHS, is a fellowship-trained gynecological oncologist practicing at MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute at Franklin Square Medical Center. Dr. Tunnage specializes in the treatment of gynecologic diseases and malignancies including cancers of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, and vulva. Her clinical interests include biomarker and molecular-driven therapies as well as immunotherapies in the treatment of gynecologic cancers. She is also dedicated to identifying ways to bridge gaps in disparities to care.

Dr. Tunnage is a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a member of the International Gynecologic Cancer Society, the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. She has also been published in multiple peer-reviewed publications and presented at numerous medical meetings. She earned her medical degree at Touro University California, College of Osteopathic Medicine, in Vallejo, California followed by a residency in obstetrics and gynecology at MedStar Washington Hospital Center/MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C. She then went on to complete a fellowship in gynecologic oncology at New York University, New York. She is proficient in Russian as well as English.

Philosophy of Care:“My philosophy of care is to focus on individualized, patient-centered cancer care, encompassing surgery and chemotherapy, as well as integrative medicine in treating patients and their families. I believe that every patient has unique needs and values that should be addressed during their cancer care. I use state-of-the-art surgical techniques, including robotics, along with targeted novel therapeutics to achieve the best outcomes for my patients.”

Mounika Gangireddy, MD
Medical Oncologist

Mounika Gangireddy, MD

Mounika Gangireddy, MD, is a fellowship-trained medical oncologist and hematologist at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center. While experienced in treating all types of malignancies, she is a specialist in caring for patients with uterine, cervical, and ovarian cancers, as well as breast cancer and blood cancers. Her clinical interests include research into biomarker-driven therapies and immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer.

Dr. Gangireddy is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Society of Hematology, the American Board of Internal Medicine, and the American College of Physicians. In addition, she has been published in multiple peer-reviewed publications and has presented at numerous medical meetings. She earned her medical degree at Kakatiya Medical College, Warangal, Telangana, India followed by a residency in internal medicine at the University of Pittsburg Medical Center Pinnacle in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and a fellowship in hematology/oncology, at Lankenau Medical Center, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. She is proficient in Telugu and Hindi as well as English.

Philosophy of Care:“My philosophy of care is to treat patients with compassion and be supportive during difficult times in their lives. I believe building trust is key for a good patient-physician relationship, and that a multidisciplinary approach is essential to developing the best treatment plan.”

Dr. Gangireddy sees patients at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center.

Shweta Kurian, MD
Medical Oncologist

Shweta Kurian, MD

Shweta Kurian, MD, is the director of breast medical oncology and the High-Risk Cancer Program at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and the MedStar Health Bel Air Medical Campus. Board certified in hematology and medical oncology, Dr. Kurian cares for patients with breast and gynecological cancers. Additionally, she has a specialized interest in the genetics of breast cancer and the steps that can be taken clinically to decrease the risk of developing breast cancer for both women and men who are deemed high-risk because they carry a genetic mutation or by virtue of family history.

Dr. Kurian is a graduate of the Government Medical College, Trivandrum, Kerala University, located in India. She completed an internal medicine residency at George Washington University/Providence Hospital in Washington D.C., where she was appointed chief resident. Her training concluded with a fellowship at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital and the University of Miami, with concentration on hematology and oncology care. A believer in the importance of lifelong education, Dr. Kurian is a member of the American Society of Hematology and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. She also applies her clinical knowledge and expertise as a reviewer for several prestigious medical journals.

Dr. Kurian is fluent in both Hindi and Malayalam. She also has knowledge of the Punjabi and Gujarati languages. She accepts new patient appointments at both MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center at the MedStar Health Bel Air Medical Campus.

Philosophy of Care:“Cancer care is very complex. It involves different specialties and multiple modalities and requires an understanding of esoteric research trials. Patient care involves selecting the best modality of treatment for each patient based on our knowledge of all of the options available. It’s also about understanding the patient as a fellow human being with their wishes being center stage as their care is directed. My role as a physician is to help my patients understand and navigate all their options and chose what is best for them.”

Dr. Kurian sees patients at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and MedStar Health Bel Air Medical Campus.

Katherine Chen, MD
Radiation Oncologist

Katherine Chen, MD

Katherine Chen, MD, is a radiation oncologist who practices at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and MedStar Health Bel Air Medical Campus. A specialist in the use of numerous radiation therapy modalities including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and volumetric arc therapy (VMAT), Dr. Chen also performs advanced stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiation therapy using systems such as CyberKnife®, which makes it possible to treat inoperable or surgically difficult tumors safely and painlessly without an incision.

Dr. Chen is a member of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiation Oncology and the American College of Radiology. She has been published in multiple peer-reviewed publications and presented at numerous national and international medical meetings. Her interests include quality of life outcomes after cancer treatment, as well as individualized palliative care for advanced or metastatic disease. She earned her medical degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and completed her residency in radiation oncology at the University of California in San Francisco.

Philosophy of Care:“I feel it is such a privilege to be able to help guide patients through some of their most vulnerable moments. The process of going through radiation therapy is unfamiliar to most people, so I try to communicate all aspects of treatment as clearly as possible. My goal is to listen to, think about, and care for each person as if they were a member of my own family. I think every individual should feel empowered to make the medical decisions that are right for them so they can live the life they want to live.

Kelly Orwat, MD
Radiation Oncologist

Kelly Orwat, MD

Kelly Orwat, MD, is a radiation oncologist at MedStar Health. She serves as Medical Director of the CyberKnife Program at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, and Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at the MedStar Health Bel Air Medical Campus.

Dr. Orwat plays an active role as comprehensive plans of care are designed and deployed for patients diagnosed with a wide range of cancers as well benign tumors that call for treatment using targeted radiation therapies. She is part of a multidisciplinary team of oncology experts at MedStar Health who are committed to delivering the latest and most innovative approaches to cancer care, with a goal to optimize clinical outcomes for each patient.

Dr. Orwat is board certified by the American Board of Radiology and is recognized as a local physician who is skilled in use of the latest radiation oncology technologies including treatment using linear accelerators and CyberKnife. She has a specialized interest in the treatment of cancers of the central nervous system and is especially focused on approaches to minimize short and long-term side effects of radiation treatment. For example, she often facilitates radiation treatment for breast and lung cancer patients while use of the Deep Breath Inspiration Hold technique, which moves the heart away from the treatment area, and helps prevent risks for a cardiac event later in life, as a result of radiation treatment.

Philosophy of Care:“Caring for the patient holistically is very important to me. People don’t come in experiencing only their cancer diagnosis. They have full lives, other illnesses, and other stressors that impact how they feel. Being mindful of that as a clinician is key as we work to help each patient through their process of treatment, with a goal to manage their diagnosis while still achieving a happy and fulfilling life.”
Dr. Orwat sees patients at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and MedStar Health Bel Air Medical Campus.

Emily Kuchinsky, MS, CGC
Certified Genetic Counselor

Emily Kuchinsky, MS, CGC

Emily Kuchinsky, MS, CGC, is a certified genetic counselor and coordinator of the cancer risk assessment and counseling program for the MedStar Health Cancer Network in Baltimore. Ms. Kuchinsky has been consulting with patients and their families regarding genetic health concerns for more than 10 years. She conducts cancer risk assessment for patients and families with a personal and/or family history of cancer, offers genetic testing and develops personalized cancer screening recommendations based on family history and/or genetic testing results.

Ms. Kuchinsky is an integral part of the oncology services offered through the MedStar Health Cancer Network, participating in multiple tumor boards per week. She launched the universal srenning program for Lynch syndrome for colon and endometrial cancers. She also conducts community outreach to educate consumers, as well as other healthcare providers, about cancer genetics.

Certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling, Ms. Kuchinsky holds a master’s degree from the University of Arizona in genetic counseling.

Hannah Stutzman, MS
Genetic Counselor

Visit us close to where you live and work.

MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center

9103 Franklin Square Dr.
Suite 2200
Baltimore, MD 21237

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MedStar Health Bel Air Medical Campus

12 MedStar Blvd,
Bel Air, MD 21015

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FAQs

Q: What are the symptoms of gynecologic cancers?

A: The symptoms of gynecologic cancers may vary depending on the type of cancer, but may include abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, pelvic pain or pressure, pain during intercourse, and changes in bowel or bladder habits.
Q: How are gynecologic cancers diagnosed?

A: Gynecologic cancers are typically diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and biopsies.
Q: What are the treatment options for gynecologic cancers?

A: The treatment options for gynecologic cancers vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer, but may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.
Q: What can be done to prevent gynecologic cancers?

A: Some ways to reduce the risk of gynecologic cancers include getting regular Pap tests and HPV vaccinations, practicing safe sex, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding exposure to certain chemicals.
Q: Who should get a second opinion for cancer?
A. Whether to seek a second opinion for cancer – or any medical diagnosis – is a personal decision. Many patients do choose to schedule a consultation with a second doctor for these reasons:

A second opinion is a way to confirm the nature of your disease and that that diagnosis you were initially given is correct.

Seeking a second opinion gives you an opportunity to explore various treatment options. The reality is that different doctors may approach treatment from various angles. Some may have the ability to offer clinical trials or other forms of researched-based medicine. Others may be able to offer a wide range of support services, to guide you through your treatment process in ways that go beyond physical care. It is important to understand what these options are so that you can make an informed and educated decision about which plan of care feels right and will give you the best chance for remission.

The personal connection matters. It is important for cancer patients to choose a doctor that makes them comfortable and who is committed to the delivery of personalized care.

Additional resources

Facebook Live: Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month

Facebook Live: Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month

Gynecologic Cancer diagnosis can be devastating, especially if the cancer is advanced. That's why it's important to understand the different types of gynecologic cancers–their risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options. We recently sat down with MedStar Health specialists Dr. Ali Mahdavi, gynecologic oncologist, Dr. Katherine Chen, radiation oncologist, and Dr. Mounika Gangireddy, medical oncologist, to learn more.
Dr. Ali Mahdavi – Service Specific

Dr. Ali Mahdavi – Service Specific

In this video, Ali Mahdavi, MD, a gynecologic oncologist from MedStar Health, discusses how robotic surgery has changed the landscape of care for women diagnosed with gynecologic cancers. Here, he explains how advanced technology in the operating room helps target cancer cells, preserves normal cells, and effectively decreases the likeliness that a patient will experience complications after surgery.
Livestream: Fighting Women's Cancers
Livestream: Fighting Women's Cancers

In case you missed our recent livestream event, watch the replay here! WMAR-TV’s Jamie Costello hosted a panel of our cancer specialists to discuss risk factors, warning signs, and treatments for some of the most common types of cancer impacting women.

Dr. Mahsa Mohebtash, medical director of MedStar Health Community Oncology in Maryland

Dr. Katherine Chen, radiation oncologist Emily Kuchinsky, CGC, certified genetic counselor

Dr. Shweta Kurian, medical oncologist Dr. Ali Mahdavi, gynecologic oncologist

Dr. Edward McCarron, surgical oncologist

Dr. Duane Monteith, thoracic surgeon

Dr. Atsuko Okabe, breast surgeon

Dr. Dana Sloan, interventional gastroenterologist
DocTalk - Podcast: Endometrial Cancer is Uterine Cancer With Ali Mahdavi

S3:E10 Endometrial cancer
Ali Mahdavi, MD
What you need to know about endometrial cancer, the most common type of uterine cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 66,000 new cases of uterine cancer are currently diagnosed each year. Unlike most cancers in the Unites States, endometrial cancer, the most common type of uterine cancer, has been increasing in both incidence and death rates and there is no way to effectively screen for it. That’s why it’s important to understand the risk factors for and symptoms of endometrial cancer as well as how it is diagnosed and treated. During this podcast, Dr. Ali Mahdavi, a gynecologic oncologist with MedStar Health, discusses what women need to know to reduce their risk of uterine cancer and how to find it early when it is easier to treat.

For interviews with Dr. Mahdavi, or for more information about this podcast, contact Regional Media Relations Director, debra.schindler@medstar.net.