Ovarian cancer with metastatic inguinal lymphadenopathy: A case series and literature review

Abstract

Background: Ovarian cancer is the 4th commonest cancer among Egyptian women. It can spread through 3 different lymphatic pathways to para-aortic/paracaval lymph nodes, to pelvic lymph nodes and only occasionally through the round ligament of the uterus to the inguinal nodes. These rare cases are staged IVb on FIGO system. Presentation: We present a series of 4 cases of ovarian cancer metastasizing to inguinal nodes. The literature review revealed only 17 published similar cases. Management controversies as well as prognosis are discussed in our study. Conclusion: Inguinal metastasis from ovarian cancer seems more frequent than previously thought. Examination of inguinal region should be mandatory in all cases diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Keywords

• Ovarian cancer
• Inguinal lymph node metastasis
• Lymphatic spread
• Stage IV