"Ovarian Teratomas Common in Reproductive-Age Young Women, Recurrence Rates Vary According to 'Tumor Characteristics'"

Samsung Seoul Hospital Professors Choi Dooseok, Lee Dongyun, and Kim Seongeun Team
Most Tumors Are Benign... Recurrence Leads to Ovarian Damage and Reduced Fertility
Recurrence Increases When Tumors Are Large or Affect Both Ovaries

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] A study has found that the recurrence rate of 'ovarian teratoma,' which commonly occurs in young women of reproductive age, varies depending on the tumor characteristics.

The team of Professors Choi Doo-seok, Lee Dong-yoon, and Kim Sung-eun from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Samsung Seoul Hospital confirmed this through a study investigating the recurrence rate of 'mature cystic teratoma' in young patients, announced on the 21st.

Ovarian teratoma is a relatively common disease in women of reproductive age, and most are benign tumors called mature cystic teratomas, so it is not a life-threatening disease. Mature cystic teratomas originate from ovarian germ cells and are composed of various tissues such as hair, cartilage, and teeth. Although the tumor tissue gives a dangerous impression, it can be removed surgically.

When removing the ovary, young women preferably have only the tumor excised, preserving the ovarian stroma to maintain fertility. However, if recurrence occurs, ovarian damage due to surgery is unavoidable, and since the cause of occurrence is unknown, prevention is also impossible.

The research team followed 442 patients aged 10 to 29 who underwent their first ovarian surgery between January 2000 and November 2018. As a result, 11.2% of patients who underwent cystectomy and 20.3% of patients who underwent oophorectomy experienced recurrence within 5 years. In the cystectomy group, the risk of recurrence was higher when the tumor was large before surgery or when tumors were located on both ovaries.

Professor Choi Doo-seok said, "Through this study, we were able to identify patient groups with a high recurrence rate of mature cystic teratoma, enabling more precise follow-up and faster response," adding, "Many gynecological diseases can be prevented through regular check-ups, so we hope women maintain a healthy life by consulting specialists."

This study was published in the recent issue of the International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics. Additionally, Professor Kim Sung-eun presented a poster at the 31st European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy conference.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.