Which of the following statements about Krukenberg tumor is correct?
- A It is a primary ovarian germ cell tumor
- B It is associated with elevated serum AFP
- C It is characterized by signet-ring cells and commonly metastasizes from the stomach ✓
- D It is a benign variant of mature cystic teratoma
Correct answer: C. It is characterized by signet-ring cells and commonly metastasizes from the stomach
Explanation
Krukenberg tumor is a metastatic adenocarcinoma to the ovaries, most commonly from the stomach (linitis plastica), characterized histologically by signet-ring mucin-producing cells. It is bilateral in most cases. It is not a primary ovarian tumor and does not secrete AFP. Primary gastric carcinoma metastasizes to ovaries via transperitoneal or lymphatic spread.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.