Chapter 26 - Germ Cell Tumors of the Ovary

Germ cell tumors of the ovary are presumed to derive from the pathogenic transformation of ovarian germ cells at different stages of development. Germ cell tumors account for 20% to 25% of all ovarian neoplasms in females. The great majority are mature teratomas, which are benign. Only 3% to 5% of all germ cell tumors in females are malignant, of which the majority are dysgerminomas, immature teratomas, and yolk sac tumors in a pure form or as part of a mixed germ cell tumor, all occurring in young patients. Somatic-type malignant transformation in mature teratoma is rare and corresponds to an additional 1% to 2% of cases; it is encountered predominantly in older patients.

Duke Scholars

Author Kyle C. Strickland Pathology