A 55-year-old postmenopausal woman has a 10 cm right ovarian mass with solid components, septations, and ascites on ultrasound. CA-125 is 680 U/mL. At laparotomy, peritoneal implants are found on the omentum and diaphragm. The most common histological subtype of epithelial ovarian cancer in this scenario is:
- A Clear cell carcinoma
- B Mucinous carcinoma
- C High-grade serous carcinoma ✓
- D Endometrioid carcinoma
Correct answer: C. High-grade serous carcinoma
Explanation
High-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) accounts for approximately 70% of all epithelial ovarian cancers and is by far the most common subtype. It is characterised by TP53 mutations, frequent BRCA1/2 alterations, and commonly presents at advanced stage (III/IV) with peritoneal dissemination. Clear cell and endometrioid carcinomas are more associated with endometriosis. Mucinous carcinoma is frequently unilateral and often metastatic from GI primary. The presentation in this question is classic for HGSC.
Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.