Papillary cystadenocarcinoma of ovary with hydrothorax

Abstract

A case of papillary cystadenocarcinoma of the ovary with hydrothorax is presented in which the effusion disappeared after removal of the tumor. It should be emphasized that a patient with an ovarian tumor and hydrothorax is entitled to abdominal exploration even though malignancy is suspected. The condition may be a benign ovarian fibroma, in which case the patient is cured; but even though the tumor be malignant, early removal may be followed by disappearance of the fluid and in some cases even by disappearance of metastases. This case is presented with a plea to the internist for thorough pelvic examination in every case of hydrothorax, and for operation whenever a pelvic tumor is found, even though malignancy is suspected.