••• Chapter 51^ Gynecologic Pathology^515
❍ What is pseudomyxoma peritonei?
This is so-called mucinous or gelatinous ascites as a result of implantation of cells in the peritoneal cavity, which
produce abundant mucous. This can be a result of a mucinous low malignant potential tumor of the ovary or
a mucinous tumor of the appendix. Although benign, death can occur as a result of extensive spreading and
compression of abdominal viscera.
❍ Which has a better prognosis, mucinous ovarian low malignant potential tumors of the endocervical, or
intestinal type?
Endocervical type.
❍ What tumor is fairly commonly found concomitantly with an endometrioid carcinoma of the ovary?
Approximately one-third of patients with an endometrioid carcinoma of the ovary have a coexistent
adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. These are thought to be separate primaries.
❍ What ovarian epithelial tumor is characterized by large epithelial cells with abundant intracytoplasmic
glycogen and form a so-called “hobnail” appearance as they protrude into the lumen of small tubules/cysts?
Clear cell carcinoma.
❍ How are most Brenner tumors discovered?
Incidentally, as about half are microscopic in nature. The vast majority are <2 cm.
❍ How common is bilaterality in endometrioid carcinoma of the ovary?
It is quite common; up to 50% of patients have bilateral tumors at the time of surgery.
❍ The tumor shown above occurred in the ovary of a 20-year-old female with hypercalcemia that resolved
following resection of her ovary. What is the diagnosis?
Small cell carcinoma.
❍ What is the most common benign tumor of the ovary?
Dermoid cyst or mature cystic teratoma.