The diagnosis and management of struma ovarii

Authors

  • Jennifer L Butt University of Stellenbosch
  • Tanya Wantenaar University of Stellenbosch

Keywords:

diagnosis, struma ovarii, surgical management, thyroid follicles

Abstract

Struma ovarii are a rare type of monodermal teratoma. Preoperative diagnosis of struma ovarii is difficult as the symptoms, clinical presentation and image on ultrasound are often similar to that of ovarian carcinoma. These patients, with mostly benign disease, often have more extensive surgery than necessary. We present the cases of four women who were diagnosed with struma ovarii postoperatively. They illustrate a range of symptoms and varied surgical approaches. The objective of this mini review is to raise awareness of the diagnosis of struma ovarii. The extensiveness of surgery, mostly in premenopausal women, can be reduced if there is a high suspicion of struma ovarii prior to surgery. An ovarian cyst with a large solid component may be suggestive of this diagnosis and magnetic resonance imaging if possible, and serum thyrogglobulin may aid in diagnosis. It is also prudent to test for hyperthyroidism if the diagnosis is suspected, to avoid thyroid crisis during surgery.

Author Biographies

  • Jennifer L Butt, University of Stellenbosch
    Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology University of Stellenbosch
  • Tanya Wantenaar, University of Stellenbosch
    Department of Anatomical Pathology University of Stellenbosch and National Health Laboratory Services Tygerberg Hospital

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Issue

Vol. 8 No. 1 (2016)

Section

Original Research

License

South African Journal of Gynaecological Oncology (SAJGO) Copyright is held by South African Society of Gynaecologic Oncology (SASGO). Copyright of the articles is held by the authors. The work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non-Commercial Works 4.0 South Africa License (CC BY NC). Material submitted for publication in the SAJGO is accepted provided it has not been published elsewhere. The SAJGO does not hold itself responsible for statements made by the authors. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do no purport to reflect the opinions or views of SASGO or its members.