[Autoamputated ovarian cysts. A clinical case]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gynecologic Pathology
• Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Autoamputation of the tubo-ovarian remnant is a rare complication of fetal ovarian cysts.
• It results from ovarian torsion within the uterus, leading to a free-floating remnant in the abdomino-pelvis.
• Reported cases in children under one year are exceptionally scarce, with only 13 documented instances.

Observation:

• A 9-month-old female presented with a history of an abdominal mass detected at 26 weeks gestation.
• CT imaging revealed an abdominal tumor, but physical examination was unremarkable.
• Laparoscopic examination identified a 6 cm cystic mass with absence of the left ovary.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination confirmed a necrotic and hemorrhagic ovarian cyst.
• The findings are consistent with ovarian autoamputation.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering ovarian autoamputation in the differential diagnosis of pediatric abdominal masses.
• Successful laparoscopic management in this infant suggests a favorable outcome with minimally invasive surgical approaches.
• Further case reports are crucial for understanding the incidence and optimal treatment strategies for this rare pediatric condition.