What is Dysgerminoma of the Ovary?

Dysgerminoma of the Ovary
Ovarian dysgerminoma on gross examination with a tan-yellow cut surface with central necrosis and hemorrhage (A) and on microscopic examination showing nests of large, uniform cells with prominent nucleoli and abundant pale to clear cytoplasm, separated by fibrous septa (B). Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis as a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with ovarian dysgerminoma. Nosratian-Baskovic M, Tan B, Folkins A, Chisholm KM, Dorigo O - Gynecologic oncology reports (2016). Not Altered. CC.

Dysgerminoma of the ovary is a malignant germ cell tumor of the ovary believed to arise from primordial germ cells. 

What is the Pathology of Ovarian Dysgerminoma?

The pathology of ovarian dysgerminoma is:

-Etiology: The cause of ovarian dysgerminoma is not been determined but molecular causes are thought to be.  

-Genes involved: TRC8, RNF139 gene.

-Pathogenesis: The sequence of events that lead to ovarian dysgerminoma are: usually the germ cells are encapsulated at birth within the primordial follicle but if they somehow escape encapsulation, cell death occurs and if the germ cells survive, rapid growth ensues, owing to the lack of normal contact inhibition, hence germ cell tumors are formed.

-Morphology: The morphology associated with ovarian dysgerminoma shows large round cells with a high nuclear to cytoplasmic ratio and many mitoses.

-Histology: The histology associated with ovarian dysgerminoma shows malignant cells.

How does Ovarian Dysgerminoma Present?

Patients with ovarian dysgerminoma typically in females who are adults or at adolescent age. The symptoms, features, and clinical findings associated with ovarian dysgerminoma include: Abdominal pain, abdominal distention, presence of a palpable mass. 

How is Ovarian Dysgerminoma Diagnosed?

Ovarian dysgerminoma is diagnosed by: histological examinations, Serum LDH levels, placental alkaline phosphatase levels, ultrasound.  

How is Ovarian Dysgerminoma Treated?

Ovarian dysgerminoma is treated by: cisplatin based chemotherapy, fertility sparing surgery, radiation therapy.

What is the Prognosis of Ovarian Dysgerminoma?

The prognosis of ovarian dysgerminoma is excellent with treatment. The 5-year actuarial survival rate for all patients is 76% with low recurrence rate. 

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Last updated on May 26, 2022