[Underestimation of ovarian pathology. Clinical aspects and medico-legal considerations]

In this review are reported the data regarding medical and gynecological responsibility in case of underestimation of ovarian pathology compared to epidemiological data. It is important to recognize the characteristics of the symptomatology, in general very mild, and the diagnostic tests suitable to detect ovarian masses. Four steps in the management of ovarian masses which may generate errors in the diagnostic and therapeutical process are stressed: the clinical diagnosis phase, the surgical phase, the management of borderline tumors, and the follow-up. It is also highlighted the importance of the concept of the "delay" in the medical action, both diagnostic and therapeutical, and an involvement of the Public Health Service, both in the prevention and the treatment of ovarian lesions, is ipothesized.