An update on the diagnosis and treatment of common malignant ovarian tumors.

Malignant ovarian tumors are the second most common female type of genital tract cancers, and they are the leading cause of death of women with such malignancies. Over the last 2 decades, advances in epidemiology, diagnostic techniques, and treatment have led to earlier diagnoses and to improved survival, particularly for patients with germ cell tumors. The purpose of this review is to acquaint practicing physicians with the advantages and pitfalls of 1990's diagnostic techniques and to guide them on when to refer. Emphasis will be given to performing the appropriate operation the first time. Adjuvant chemotherapy with newer combined regimens may improve survival in some patients with epithelial ovarian cancer and has been shown to improve survival in patients with germ cell tumors.