THE ROLE OF COMPUTED-TOMOGRAPHY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF OVARIAN-TUMORS OF BORDERLINE MALIGNANCY

Ovarian tumours of borderline malignancy are a distinct histological a nd clinical entity diagnosed in up to 15% of patients presenting with an ovarian neoplasm. Compared with frankly malignant tumours, they hav e a much better prognosis, present at an earlier age, and the majority are stage 1 at diagnosis. This study reviewed 35 patients with ovaria n tumours of borderline malignancy referred to the CRC Medical Oncolog y Unit at The Christie Hospital over a 9-year period and evaluated the role of diagnostic imaging, in particular, the value of postoperative computed tomography (CT). We conclude that in cases of FIGO stage 1 d isease where there is complete macroscopic removal of tumour, there is no need for further routine imaging, If chemotherapy is to be given f or patients with more advanced disease, a baseline postoperative abdom ino-pelvic CT scan and a posttreatment scan are appropriate investigat ions.