Clinical and pathologic findings at second-look surgery for ovarian carcinoma

Clinical and microscopic pathologic findings at second look surgery for ovarian neoplasm were evaluated in 31 patients to assess the changes induced by chemotherapy and to evaluate prognostic signs. Significant microscopic changes were found in one-third of cases including nuclear hyperchromasia, and decreased differentiation. Minimal changes in inflammatory response were noted as well as a suggestion of an effect on clot organization. Differences between clinical and microscopic response were marked. Good clinical response was generally associated with minimal or absent tumor found at the second look.