Serous psammocarcinoma of the ovary: a case report and review of literature

Abstract

Background. Serous psammocarcinoma is a form of ovarian carcinoma, characterized by massive psammoma body formation, invasiveness, and low-grade cytological features. We reported a new bilateral case of serous psammocarcinoma. We also reviewed the literature in order to delineate clinical, pathological, and prognostic features of this rare neoplasm. Case History. A 66-year-old white woman was admitted to our Institution for a voluminous abdomino-pelvic mass, which was suspected to be a leiomyoma of the uterus. Abdominal computed tomography scan revealed a heavily calcified abdominopelvic mass with cystic areas. The origin of this lesion was unclear in diverse scanning of computed tomography. Elevated serum CA-125 levels suggested the eventuality of an ovarian neoplasm. Thus, the patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy. Intraoperatory findings showed two ovarian calcified lesions. The surface of omentum was covered with a white nodule. Pathological findings were consistent with serous psammocarcinoma with invasive implant of the omentum. Conclusion. Serous psammocarcinoma is a rare form of ovarian carcinoma with only 13 cases reported in literature. Patient's age can range from 18 to 76 years. Prognostic factors suggest that this neoplasm has more favorable prognosis than usual serous carcinomas. It is important to differentiate these two neoplasms and other pelvic mass, such as calcified leiomyoma.