Histopathologic Alterations in Ovarian Papillary Serous Cystadenocarcinomas After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Possible Clinical Significance

Abstract

Abstract

Objectives:

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is being used increasingly prior to debulking for ovarian serous carcinoma. There can be significant histopathologic alterations, sometimes making the pathologic diagnosis challenging.

Methods:

A MEDLINE search was performed, and articles describing the histologic changes associated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, as well as any possible clinical impact, were reviewed.

Results:

The scope of histopathologic changes seen after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for ovarian serous carcinoma, as well as their possible clinical significance, is presented. Histopathologic changes included degenerative changes, increased atypia, and alterations that can make pathologic interpretation difficult, particularly if there is a lack of familiarity with these changes and lack of an available clinical history.

Conclusions:

More research is needed to assess whether or not there is any prognostic significance to these alterations. (J GYNECOL SURG 33:1)