Malignant Epithelial Tumors of the Ovary: Pathogenesis and Imaging

Radiol Clin North Am. 2023 Jul;61(4):563-577. doi: 10.1016/j.rcl.2023.02.003. Epub 2023 Mar 25.

Abstract

Epithelial ovarian neoplasms (EON) constitute the majority of ovarian cancers. Among EON, high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) is the most common and most likely to present at an advanced stage. Radiologists should recognize the imaging features associated with HGSC, particularly at ultrasound and MR imaging. Computed tomography is used for staging and to direct care pathways. Peritoneal carcinomatosis is common and does not preclude surgical resection. Other less common malignant EON have varied appearances, but share a common correlation between the amount of vascularized solid tissue and the likelihood of malignancy.

Keywords: Clear cell ovarian carcinoma; Endometrioid ovarian carcinoma; Epithelial ovarian neoplasm; Mucinous ovarian carcinoma; Ovarian cancer; Ovarian neoplasm; Serous carcinoma; Tubal carcinoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / metabolism
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / pathology