Ovarian epithelial tumors of borderline malignancy (carcinomas of low malignant potential)

Ovarian epithelial neoplasms that have morphologic features intermediate between those of clearly benign and unquestionably malignant lesions are currently classified as tumors of borderline malignancy (carcinomas of low malignant potential). Patients with stage I lesions of this type have an excellent prognosis following conservative surgery. Survival rates are remarkably good even when extraovarian spread has developed. The clinicopathologic features and histologic criteria for the diagnosis of borderline tumors of serous and mucinous cell types are detailed in this presentation.