The diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging in differentiating benign and malignant pediatric ovarian tumors

Abstract

Abstract Background The diagnostic workup of ovarian tumors in children and adolescents is challenging because preserving fertility, in addition to oncological safety, is of particular importance in this population. Therefore, a thorough preoperative assessment of ovarian tumors is required. Objective To investigate the diagnostic value of MR imaging in differentiating benign from malignant ovarian tumors in children and adolescents. Materials and methods We conducted a retrospective study of all children and adolescents age <18 years who underwent MR imaging of ovarian tumors during 2014–2019 at a pediatric specialty center. Two radiologists reviewed all MR imaging. We used pathology reports to define the histological diagnosis. Results We included 30 girls who underwent MR imaging for an ovarian tumor. Signs indicative for malignancy were tumors with a diameter ≥8 cm, with areas of contrast enhancement, irregular margins, extracapsular tumor growth, and ascites. All benign and malignant ovarian tumors were correctly identified by the radiologists. Conclusion The diagnostic utility of MR imaging in classifying ovarian tumors in children and adolescents as benign or malignant is promising and might aid in defining the indication for ovarian-sparing versus non-ovarian-sparing surgery. We recommend evaluating these tumors with MR imaging prior to deciding on surgical treatment.