Ovarian Tumor Index May Prevent Unnecessary Procedures - Brief Article

AORN Journal, March, 2000

A new ovarian tumor index to help physicians accurately diagnose ovarian tumors as cancerous or benign has been developed by researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSMC), Dallas. The index may prevent unnecessary surgical procedures in thousands of women.

Diagnosing ovarian cancer is difficult, and physicians often recommend surgery regardless of whether they are sure the tumor is malignant or benign. Many women who have ovarian tumors discover their tumors were benign after this aggressive treatment. Researchers developed the index by evaluating characteristics of malignant and nonmalignant masses through real-time ultrasound and flow and structural measurements, and by checking vessel location in 304 women. The most definitive characteristic, however, was the patient's age. A logical correlation existed between the patient's age and the chance of malignancy--younger patients were more likely than older patients to have benign tumors.

Of the 304 participants, 244 had follow-up care at UTSMC. Of those patients, 214 were diagnosed with noncancerous masses, and 30 had cancerous neoplasms. Researchers found that larger vascular tumors with abnormal appearances were more likely to represent malignant disease.

This index is one method of interpreting a complex set of ultrasound findings that will assist physicians to plan more tests, procedures, or other clinical management. If the index indicates a benign mass the patient may have a much less traumatic procedure (eg, laparoscopy). Index information also may help physicians decide whether to perform surgery or refer the patient to an oncologist.

Tumor Index for Diagnosing Ovarian Cancer (press release, Dallas: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dec 24, 1999) 1-2. Available from http://www .newswisecom/articles/1999/12/OVARIAN2.SWM.html. Accessed 21 Jan 2000.