Amputated calcified ovaries in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric surgery
• Gynecologic pathology
• Developmental abnormalities

Background:

• Abdominal masses in children can present diagnostic challenges.
• Ovarian and adnexal abnormalities require careful evaluation in pediatric patients.

Observation:

• Four asymptomatic girls (2 weeks to 9 years) presented with a calcified abdominal mass.
• Laparotomy revealed absence of the right ovary in all patients.
• Partial or complete absence of the ipsilateral oviduct was noted in three patients.

Findings:

• The consistent finding of a calcified abdominal mass suggests a specific etiology.
• Absence of ovarian and tubal tissue points towards a destructive process.
• Histopathological examination would be crucial to confirm the nature of the mass.

Implications:

• This presentation suggests antenatal or subclinical adnexal torsion as a likely cause.
• Torsion can lead to necrosis, amputation, and subsequent calcification of the adnexa.
• Understanding this pathway aids in diagnosing congenital or early-onset adnexal pathology in girls.