Refractory Ascites Revealing an Ovarian Yolk Sac Tumor with Intraperitoneal Rupture

Abstract

Yolk sac tumors of the ovary are rare entities that account for 2% - 5% of all ovarian tumors. They represent the second most common histological variant of malignant germ cell tumors of the ovary after dysgerminomas. Yolk sac tumors are most commonly encountered in women in the second and third decades. Microscopically, they are highly polymorphic and can present in a pure form or associated with another contingent of germ cell tumor. We report the case of a 26-year-old woman, who underwent surgery for a large right ovarian tumor rupturing into the peritoneal cavity. The ovarian tumor was revealed by ascites of great abundance and abdomino-pelvic pain. On histological examination, the diagnosis of yolk sac tumor in its pure and polyvesicular vitelline pattern was made. Through this observation, we propose to discuss the anatomoclinical particularities of these tumors by emphasizing the importance of histology for the diagnosis as well as the need of an early and appropriate management.