Using a logistic model to predict malignancy of adnexal masses based on menopausal status, ultrasound morphology, and color Doppler findings

In the present study we aimed to develop a formula for predicting adnexal malignancy based on menopausal status, ultrasound morphology, and color Doppler findings. Logistic regression analysis was performed retrospectively in 79 adnexal masses (59 benign and 20 malignant) in 73 unselected and consecutive patients. All these masses had been preoperatively evaluated using transvaginal color Doppler ultrasonography. In logistic analysis menopausal status (premenopausal vs postmenopausal), color Doppler findings (no flow or lowest resistance index >0.45 vs lowest resistance index </=0.45) and ultrasound morphology (nonsuspicious vs suspicious) were entered as categorical variables. Morphology and color Doppler were found to be independent predictors, whereas menopausal status was not. To assess the validity of the developed mathematical formula, this was applied prospectively in a second series of 58 consecutive and unselected patients diagnosed of adnexal mass and scheduled for surgery. The probability of malignancy was estimated in each case. Overall, 56 of 58 (96.5%) adnexal masses were correctly classified. We conclude that the formula developed in this study is easy to apply and could be useful to predict malignancy or benignity of adnexal masses.