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Epithelial metaplastic changes in ovarian endometriosis
1Department of Pathology, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
Summary
Epithelial metaplasia is common in ovarian endometriosis, particularly when associated with malignancy or atypia. These metaplastic changes, especially mucinous types, may play a role in the development of ovarian tumors.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Pathology
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Epithelial metaplasia in ovarian endometriosis is poorly understood.
- Metaplastic changes are frequently observed in endometriosis tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and types of epithelial metaplasia in ovarian endometriosis.
- To determine the association between metaplasia and malignant ovarian epithelial tumors or atypia.
Main Methods:
- Clinicopathological analysis of 315 ovarian endometriosis cases.
- Retrospective review of hospital files from 1987 to 1995.
Main Results:
- Metaplasia was found in 63% of non-malignant endometriosis cases.
- Ciliated cell and eosinophilic metaplasias were most common (44% each).
- Metaplasia was present in all atypical endometriosis and malignant tumor cases; mucinous metaplasia was associated with Müllerian mucinous borderline tumors.
Conclusions:
- Metaplastic changes in ovarian endometriosis are frequent and often associated with malignancy or atypia.
- Metaplasia should not be mistaken for neoplastic changes.
- Mucinous metaplasia and hyperplasia in endometriosis may be linked to Müllerian mucinous borderline tumor development.