[Ovarian cancer: anatomo-clinical classifications]

There are important barriers in the correct evaluation of the anatomic involvement of malignant ovarian tumors. Nevertheless, it seems advisable to rationalise the criteria of involvement. The authors relate the past classifications of Heyman, Helsel, Munnel, Davis, Gellé, Rutledge and Burns. The most widely accepted present-day classifications are the TNM system of the UICC and above all that of the FIGO. It seems that an attempt at unification between the two systems is recommendable. However, all classifications are arbitrary in nature because of the very diversity of carcinoma of the ovary.