Histopathological spectrum of ovarian tumors: A study of 53 cases

Abstract

Background: Ovarian malignancies are one of the most common malignancies affecting women. Worldwide, it is the sixth most common cancer overall and second most common among gynecological cancers. It consists of 4% of all female cancers and 23% of all gynecological cancers. In India, it comprises 8.7% of cancers in different parts of the country. About 80% are benign and occur in younger age group and malignant tumors occur in older age group. The purpose of the study was to study the frequency of ovarian tumors in relation of age distribution, laterality, histological subtypes and histomorphological spectrum. Methods: This one year retrospective study included fifty-three (53) cases of ovarian tumors. All the resected specimens received either as solitary specimens or as a part of pan hysterectomy in the laboratory were included in the study. After detailed study of sections under the light microscope the final diagnosis was arrived and were classified according to the WHO classification of ovarian tumors. Results: Of the 53 cases majority were malignant tumors 71.70% (38 cases) with serous carcinomas being more common. Majority of the malignant tumors were seen bilaterally and more common in older age groups. Benign tumors were more common in younger age groups. Conclusion: The ovarian tumors being one of the major gynecological challenge to medical fraternity. However, benign tumors are more common in the younger age group and malignant tumors in older age group. Hence early detection of ovarian tumors is very crucial in reducing the morbidity and mortality of the patients.