Malignant mixed mesodermal tumors of the ovary.

OBJECTIVE

To review the experience at Women & Infants Hospital and Hartford Hospital of patients with malignant mixed mesodermal tumors of the ovary, and to review the pertinent literature.

METHODS

Fourteen cases of malignant mixed mesodermal tumors of the ovary at the two hospitals over a 5-year period were identified through their tumor registries. Demographic data, pathology, treatment, and survival rates were reviewed.

RESULTS

The median survival of the patients in our series was 7 months, with 64% dead of disease in 1 year. A review of the pertinent literature indicated median survivals of 6-12 months, with more than 70% of the patients dead of disease at 1 year, despite treatment.

CONCLUSION

Further investigation is needed to determine the proper management for malignant mixed mesodermal tumors of the ovary. Meanwhile, current treatment strategies should recognize the present therapeutic limitations, so as not to diminish any further the quality of life for women with this malignancy.