MALIGNANT MIXED MESODERMAL TUMORS OF THE OVARY

Objective: To review the experience at Women & Infants Hospital and Ha rtford Hospital of patients with malignant mixed mesodermal tumors of the ovary, and to review the pertinent literature. Methods: Fourteen c ases of malignant mixed mesodermal tumors of the ovary at the two hosp itals over a 5-year period were identified through their tumor registr ies. Demographic data, pathology, treatment, and survival rates were r eviewed. Results: The median survival of the patients in our series wa s 7 months, with 64% dead of disease in 1 year. A review of the pertin ent literature indicated median survivals of 6-12 months, with more th an 70% of the patients dead of disease at 1 year, despite treatment. C onclusion: Further investigation is needed to determine the proper man agement for malignant mixed mesodermal tumors of the ovary. Meanwhile, current treatment strategies should recognize the present therapeutic limitations, so as not to diminish any further the quality of life fo r women with this malignancy.