Giant ovarian tumor masked by obesity

Abstract

Giant ovarian tumors are rare, but comprise both a clinical as well as a surgical challenge. During the past two decades only 20 cases of ovarian tumors weighing 20 kg or more have been reported. We present a new case, where a giant benign ovarian cystadenoma weighing 28 kg, masked by obesity, was removed. Pathology, complications and treatment of such tumors is discussed. Intact removal and pre-/intra operative drainage of such tumors are equally good as treatment of choice and each case must, therefore, be considered individually. The overall mortality rate in treating such tumors has decreased markedly during the past century. We recommend abdominal ultrasound scan for diagnosis, which should be kept in mind in severe obesity, especially when disproportionate.