A LARGE MUCINOUS CYSTADENOMA OF THE OVARY IN ADOLESCENT GIRL

Abstract

Mucinous cystadenomas are benign epithelial ovarian tumors that are rarely observed in adolescents, making their presentation a clinical challenge. These tumors can grow to substantial sizes, often occupying the entire abdominal cavity. We present a case of a 17-year-old girl who presented with a two-month history of abdominal distension. There were no associated symptoms of abdominal pain, vomiting, or bowel/bladder disturbances. On examination, a large abdominal mass extending from the pelvis to the xiphisternum was noted. Ultrasonography revealed a giant abdominopelvic cystic lesion measuring 55 × 18 × 60 cm. MRI further characterized the lesion as a large, thin-walled cystic structure arising from the left ovary with features suggestive of a mucinous cystadenoma, causing right hydroureteronephrosis due to mass effect. The patient underwent laparotomy with frozen section analysis, which confirmed a borderline mucinous neoplasm. Surgical management included left salpingo-oophorectomy, pelvic lymph node dissection, para-aortic node sampling, appendectomy, and infracolic omentectomy. Histopathological examination confirmed a benign mucinous cystadenoma with focal proliferation of less than 10%. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on the 8th postoperative day with advice for regular follow-up. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, and tailored surgical approaches in managing large ovarian tumors in adolescents.