Borderline ovarian tumours : an update

Abstract

Borderline ovarian tumours are clinical entities less frequently encountered by obstetricians and gynecologists. Management options keep on changing with time and fertility sparing procedures and laparoscopy keep emerging. Surgical removal of all visible tumours still remains the most effective management. So far, non surgical treatment modalities have not been found to be beneficial. Pathologists are increasingly able to identify poor prognostic features in histology. Molecular biological studies are progressively being elucidated as prognostic features which might help us more in understanding the carcinogenic process and progression of the disease. This review outlines the recent literature regarding pathology, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and recurrence. Oncologic concerns are discussed with emphasis on mode of surgery, fertility sparing surgery and the outcomes.