Introduction Description: Accessory nipples are supernumerary nipples found along defined developmental lines known as the “milk lines.” Prevalence: Observed in 0.22%–2.5% of women and in up to 5%–6% of Asian women. Predominant Age: Congenital in origin. Present in 1% of…
Introduction Description: A transitional cell (Brenner) tumor is an epithelial tumor that is composed of cells that resemble urothelium and Walthard cell nests, intermixed with the ovarian stroma. Most Brenner tumors are benign (95%). Prevalence: 1%–3% of ovarian tumors. Predominant…
Introduction Description: Tubo-ovarian abscess is an inflammatory mass involving the fallopian tube, ovary, and, occasionally, other adjacent pelvic organs. These abscesses most often occur as a complication of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), though spread from other sites is possible. Rupture…
Introduction Description: A Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor is a rare sex cord tumor of the ovary that comprises male elements and may be associated with virilization. Tumors vary in size but are generally 5–15 cm in diameter when incidentally found. Prevalence:…
Introduction Description: Serous ovarian cysts are a group of benign and malignant epithelial tumors of the ovary that are characterized as serous cells. These tumors are the most commonly encountered epithelial ovarian tumors. When malignant, these tumors tend to be…
Introduction Description: Pseudomyxoma peritonei is the intraperitoneal spread of a mucin-secreting tumor (either a mucinous cystadenoma or carcinoma), which results in recurrent abdominal masses, often-massive ascites, and multiple bowel obstructions. This tumor most frequently begins in the appendix. Prevalence: Roughly…
Introduction Description: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious, diffuse, frequently multiorganism infection of the pelvic organs that results in significant morbidity. The term refers to a spectrum of inflammatory disorders of the upper female genital tract, including any combination…
Introduction Description: Ovarian torsion involves the twisting of a part or all of the adnexa on its mesentery, resulting in tissue ischemia and frank infarction. This usually involves the ovary but may also include the fallopian tube. Prevalence: Uncommon; 2%–3%…
Introduction Description: The most common benign ovarian tumor is the ovarian fibroma, which is composed of stromal cells (fibroblasts). Although benign, these tumors are sometimes associated with ascites and hydrothorax (Demons syndrome, Meigs syndrome, 1% of patients). Prevalence: 4% of…
The Challenge Description: An ovarian cyst is a cystic growth within the ovary, generally arising from epithelial components and most often benign. Scope of the Problem: Benign ovarian tumors are most frequently diagnosed at the time of routine examination and…