Ovarian clear cell carcinoma associated with endometriosis: a case report and literature review

Purpose: The purpose of this report was to confirm that endometriosis, although a benign gynecological disease, in some patients, can give rise to ovarian cancers. Case Report: The authors report a case of clear cell carcinoma in a patient suffering of endometriosis. The patient, a 38-year old nullipara, had a history of bilateral ovarian cysts diagnosed on routine check-up by ultrasound scan four years ago. After admission to hospital, due to cramping lower abdominal pain, MRI showed tumorous mass, with solid and cystic components, located between abdominal wall, lateral pelvic walls, and lumbosacral part of spine belonging to ovaries. The patient underwent appropriate extensive surgery. Histopathological investigation revealed ovarian clear cell adenocarcinoma Stage IIIa, along with endometriotic cyst found on the contralateral side. Conclusion: This report confirms the strong link between endometriosis and ovarian cancer and sends an appeal for urgent and precise definition of parameters relevant for determination of patients’ groups with the risk for malignancy.