Ovarian clear-cell carcinoma

Micrograph of an ovarian clear cell carcinoma. H&E stain.

Clear cell ovarian tumors are part of the surface epithelial-stromal tumor group of ovarian cancers, accounting for 6% of these cancers. Clear cell tumors are also associated with the pancreas and salivary glands.

Description

Typically, they are cystic neoplasms with polypoid masses that protrude into the cyst. On microscopic pathological examination, they are composed of cells with clear cytoplasm (that contains glycogen) and hob nail cells (from which the glycogen has been secreted). The pattern may be glandular, papillary or solid.

Prognosis

Benign and borderline variants of this neoplasm are rare, and most cases are malignant. These tumors may have a worse prognosis than serous tumors.

External links

• Clear Cell Carcinoma of Ovary at University of Connecticut Health Center