Eur J Pediatr Surg 2010; 20(2): 116-120
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1246198
Original Article

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Pediatric Ovarian Tumors – Dilemmas in Diagnosis and Management

E. M. Ruttenstock1 , A. K. Saxena1 , W. Schwinger2 , E. Sorantin3 , M. E. Hoellwarth1
  • 1Medical University of Graz, Pediatric and Adolescents Surgery, Graz, Austria
  • 2Medical University of Graz, Pediatric Oncology Department, Graz, Austria
  • 3Medical University of Graz, Department of Radiology, Graz, Austria
Further Information

Publication History

received June 28, 2009

accepted after revision October 29, 2009

Publication Date:
28 January 2010 (online)

Abstract

Background: Ovarian tumors are rare in the pediatric age group and thus diagnostic and treatment strategies are heterogeneous. This study aims to evaluate ovarian tumors with a focus on age at presentation, imaging characteristics, diagnostic strategy, tumor presentation and management.

Methods: Data was collected retrospectively from patients admitted between 1991 and 2008 for the evaluation and therapy of ovarian tumors.

Results: Twenty-five patients were identified with neoplastic ovarian lesions (mean age 10.7 years). Sixteen patients (64%) underwent surgery for benign and 9 (36%) for malignant tumors. Benign tumors (n=16) had a mean diameter of 10.7 cm and mean age at presentation was 9.6 years compared to a diameter of 18.6 cm and 12.3 years in the malignant group (n=9). Elevated tumor markers were observed in 3 (12.5%) benign tumors and in 7 (77.8%) malignant tumors. In preoperative ultrasound investigation, cyst formation was identified in 4 benign tumors and solid tumor mass in 2 malignant tumors. A minimally invasive surgical approach was chosen in two patients, while open surgery was opted for in the rest.

Conclusion: Cyst formation, small tumor size and younger age at presentation were characteristic of benign tumors. Malignant tumors often presented with elevated tumor markers, a larger size and a solid consistency. Diagnostic dilemmas remain for both tumor groups due to the different tumor types and the heterogeneity of presentation.

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Correspondence

Dr. Elke M. Ruttenstock

Medical University of Graz

Pediatric and Adolescents Surgery

Auenbruggerplatz 34

8036 Graz

Austria

Phone: +436504140806

Fax: +433163853775

Email: elke.ruttenstock@gmx.at

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