Ovarian tumors in the second decade of life

A study of 28 adolescents aged 10-20 years admitted with ovarian tumors during a 5-year period revealed that 75% had malignant ovarian tumors, with germ cell tumors being most frequent. The high incidence of malignancy was due to our hospital being a referral centre. One case of mixed germ cell tumor (mainly choriocarcinoma) presented with precocious puberty, and one case of arrhenoblastoma showed signs of virilization. Tumor markers were found useful in diagnosing choriocarcinoma and endodermal sinus tumor. Amongst the malignant ovarian tumors, the best prognosis was noted with dysgerminomas. Tumors were found more frequently on the right side. Optimal surgery at initial laparotomy, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy were found to offer the best change of cure.