Endometrioid carcinoma of ovary

Endometrioid carcinoma of the ovary is a malignant epithelial tumor of the ovary that histologically resembles endometrial carcinoma of the uterus. It accounts for approximately 10-15% of all epithelial ovarian cancers. This cancer arises from the surface epithelium of the ovary or from foci of endometriosis (a condition where endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus), and there is a well-established association between ovarian endometriosis and the development of this tumor type. The disease primarily affects the female reproductive system, but as it progresses, it can spread to the peritoneum, lymph nodes, and distant organs. Key symptoms include pelvic or abdominal pain, abdominal bloating or distension, changes in bowel or bladder habits, early satiety, unexplained weight loss, and an adnexal mass detected on imaging. Many patients are diagnosed at an earlier stage compared to high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma, which contributes to a generally more favorable prognosis. Endometrioid ovarian carcinomas are frequently low-grade and may be associated with concurrent endometrial pathology, including synchronous endometrioid carcinoma of the uterus in up to 15-20% of cases. Treatment typically involves cytoreductive surgery (debulking), including total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, and staging procedures, followed by platinum-based combination chemotherapy (usually carboplatin and paclitaxel). Molecular profiling has identified frequent mutations in genes such as CTNNB1, PTEN, PIK3CA, ARID1A, and mismatch repair genes, with a subset of tumors demonstrating microsatellite instability. Patients with mismatch repair deficiency may be candidates for immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Hormonal therapy may also be considered in select cases. The association with Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer syndrome, caused by germline mutations in mismatch repair genes including MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2) means that genetic counseling and testing should be offered, particularly in younger patients or those with a suggestive family history.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Common questions about Endometrioid carcinoma of ovary