An in-depth look at Krukenberg tumor: an overview.
Krukenberg tumor is an uncommon metastatic tumor of the ovary. This article provides an overview of the major pathologic manifestations of Krukenberg tumor, patient characteristics, clinical and laboratory features of the disease, prognostic factors, and current knowledge about its pathogenesis. Pathologists have to be familiar with the diagnostic histopathologic features of the tumor and its principal differential diagnoses. Awareness of the diagnostic manifestations of the tumor leads to the correct diagnosis and prevents tumor misclassification, thus avoiding improper clinical management. The article also addresses the potential clinical utility of serum CA 125 in patients with Krukenberg tumors. Prognosis of Krukenberg tumor is still very poor but our review of the literature reveals several factors that appear to have an impact on survival. There is no established treatment for Krukenberg tumors. A national registry and prospective studies are needed to set a therapeutic approach for Krukenberg tumors in the hope of improving the survival rate.
Al-Agha
Osama M
OM
Department of Pathology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave, Box 25, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA. osama.al-agha@downstate.edu
Nicastri
Anthony D
AD
D018394:CA-125 Antigen / Q000097:blood; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D007725:Krukenberg Tumor / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D009026:Mortality; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis; D010051:Ovarian Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D011379:Prognosis; D016019:Survival Analysis; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
D018394:CA-125 Antigen