Benign extraovarian mimics of ovarian cancer. Distinction with imaging studies

Charles D. Levine, Upen J. Patel, Devyani Ghanekar, Ronald H. Wachsberg, Marc Z. Simmons, Marjorie Stein

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

29 Scopus citations

Abstract

Imaging of the pelvis via computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, or magnetic resonance (MR) provides excellent anatomical detail and superb resolution. Despite this, radiologists often have difficulty reaching a specific diagnosis in evaluating adnexal masses. A wide spectrum of benign extraovarian pathology may closely resemble ovarian cancer. Fallopian tube disease such as hydrosalpinx, tuboovarian abscess, and chronic ectopic pregnancy may mimic cystic or solid ovarian neoplasm. Pedunculated uterine leiomyomas may imitate ovarian lesions. Gastrointestinal causes of adnexal masses include mucocele, abscess, and hematoma. These entities may appear similar to ovarian lesions, thus requiring close attention to specific anatomical detail in order to help differentiate them. Similarly, peritoneal disease including tuberculous peritonitis and peritoneal pseudocyst may simulate ovarian tumor. While ultrasound represents the initial imaging modality in the evaluation of most pelvic disease, MR's multiplanar capability and improved tissue characterization make if a valuable modality in many circumstances.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)350-358
Number of pages9
JournalClinical Imaging
Volume21
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 1997
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Cancer
  • Fallopian tube
  • Fibroids
  • Ovarian
  • Uterine varices

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging

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