Clinicopathological Analysis of Adnexal Masses Presenting in a Tertiary Healthcare Centre, Karnataka, India: A Retrospective Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction: The ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the broad ligament make up the anatomical adnexa. Adnexal masses represent a commonly occurring issue in gynaecology. The majority of ovarian malignancies are detected at advanced stages. The clinical manifestations of adnexal masses vary, with many cancers either showing no symptoms or presenting with vague signs. In the reproductive age group, the most typical manifestation is a benign functional cyst. Aim: To conduct a clinico-pathological analysis of adnexal masses among women presenting at a tertiary healthcare centre. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Akash Institute of Medical Science and Research Centre, Devanahalli, Karnataka, India, from November 2022 to April 2024. The diagnosis of adnexal mass was based on clinical symptoms, abdominal examination, bimanual examination, and trans-abdominal ultrasound. The CA-125 and other tumour markers were sent depending on the risk of malignancy. All tissues were sent for histopathological examination. The data were collected and tabulated in a Microsoft excel sheet, and percentages were calculated. Results: This study included 38 cases, in which benign ovarian and para-ovarian cysts were the most common findings, observed in 21 cases (55.3%). There were six cases of benign serous cystadenoma (15.8%), three cases of teratoma (7.9%), two cases of high-grade serous carcinoma (5.3%), one case of germ cell tumour (2.6%), one case of mucinous cystadenoma (2.6%), two cases of endometriotic cysts (5.3%), one case of adnexal cystic degeneration of a fibroid (2.6%), and one rare case of primary fallopian tube carcinoma (2.6%). The most common presenting complaint was abdominal pain, reported in 21 cases (55.3%). Conclusion: Adnexal masses can present in a variety of forms, ranging from benign cysts to infections and cancers. A thorough history and clinical examination are essential for accurate diagnosis. Investigations support the diagnosis, and histology confirms it.

Keywords

• benign
• clinical presentation
• histopathology
• malignant
• ovarian tumours