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DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1246198
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York
Pediatric Ovarian Tumors – Dilemmas in Diagnosis and Management
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.
Key words
pediatric - ovarian tumors - benign - malignant
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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