Journal

Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology

Papers (79)

Effect of Surgical Specialty on Management of Adnexal Masses in Children and Adolescents: An 8-Year Single-Center Review

Children with adnexal masses might be managed by pediatric surgeons, urologists or gynecologists, with the potential for different management strategies between specialties. In this study we compared ovarian conservation rates and surgical approach for adnexal masses in children and adolescents managed either by pediatric surgeons/urologists or gynecologists at a tertiary care institution. Retrospective cohort review. Tertiary pediatric and adult university hospital. Patients younger than 18 years of age with an adnexal mass managed surgically with removal of histologically confirmed ovarian or fallopian tube tissue from 2008 to 2015. Laparoscopic or open procedure for adnexal mass. The primary outcome was rate of ovarian conservation relative to surgical specialty. The secondary outcome was surgical approach relative to surgical specialty. Forty-eight patients underwent surgery for adnexal masses; 26 (54%) under pediatric surgery/urology and 22 (46%) under gynecology care. Laparoscopy was performed in 5 (19%) pediatric and 19 (86%) gynecology cases (P = .000006). Of 24 patients older than 12 years of age with a benign tumor, 10 (42%) underwent procedures resulting in loss of an ovary with or without fallopian tube; 8 of these (80%) were under pediatric care. Of the remaining 14 (58%) who underwent ovarian conserving surgery, 12 (80%) were under gynecology care (P = .0027). Patients with a benign tumor were significantly more likely to undergo ovary-preserving surgery under gynecology care than under pediatric surgery/urology care. A multidisciplinary team approach involving gynecology and pediatric surgical specialties would be valuable in assessing the merits of ablative or conservative surgery in each case.

Polish Mothers and Cervical Cancer Prophylaxis: What Do They Know and What Attitude Do They Have Toward Human Papillomavirus Vaccination?

The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer primary and secondary prophylaxis among our patients' mothers, and their attitude toward human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. During patients' appointments at Children's Memorial Health Institute Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Clinic in Warsaw we asked 234 mothers (aged <20-60) to complete a self-prepared survey. The data were analyzed using t-student test and chi-square test. Only 61.5% of respondents correctly indicated the purpose of cervical cytology. Similarly, 67.9% claimed that it should be performed annually, and 79.4% that till the end of life. Although 87.6% of answerers have heard about HPV vaccination, still 69.3% of them were willing to get more information. Physicians were considered the most reliable source of knowledge about HPV vaccination and had a relevant impact on mothers' decision to vaccinate (P < .05). Nearly all respondents (92.7%) weren't vaccinated against HPV. Still, 57.3% declared willingness to vaccinate their children. The vaccine skeptics indicated that they had too little information (59%), feared side effects (45%), and doubted HPV vaccine effectiveness (23%). Mothers aged 40 and older and with higher education had greater knowledge about cervical cancer screening (P < .05) and were more willing to vaccinate their children (P < .05). Since cervical cytology was invented 100 years ago, knowledge about this screening test is low. The HPV vaccine is well-recognized and well-accepted, but most respondents lack information. Consequently, it is crucial to initiate multidirectional educational actions to raise awareness about cervical cancer and its prophylaxis.

Recurrence Rates for Pediatric Benign Ovarian Neoplasms

To examine the recurrence rates of pediatric benign ovarian neoplasms METHODS: A retrospective review of females up to 21 years of age who underwent surgery for a benign ovarian neoplasm at 8 pediatric hospitals from January 2010 through December 2016 was conducted. Data include primary operation details, follow-up imaging, and reoperation details. Four hundred and twenty-six females were included in our cohort, with a median age of 15 years at the time of the primary operation. Of the patients, 69% had a mature teratoma, 18% had a serous cystadenoma, and 8% had a mucinous cystadenoma. Two-thirds of patients underwent ovarian-sparing surgery. There were 11 pathologically confirmed recurrences (2.6%) at a median follow-up of 12.8 months. The pathologically confirmed recurrence was 10.5 per 100 person-months at 12 months (SE = 5.7) for mucinous cystadenomas and 0.4 months (SE = 0.4) for mature teratomas (P = .001). For half of the patients, the pathologically confirmed recurrences occurred by 12.8 months, and for 75%, they occurred by 23.3 months. There were no differences in reoperation or recurrence on the basis of initial procedure (ovary-sparing surgery vs oophorectomy). We measured the pathologically confirmed recurrence rate for pediatric benign ovarian neoplasms in a large cohort. Oophorectomy was not protective against recurrence. Mucinous cystadenomas were at a greater risk of pathologically confirmed recurrence.

Sonographic Predictors of Ovarian Torsion in Premenarchal Girls

To identify preoperative transabdominal sonographic predictors of surgically confirmed ovarian torsion (OT) in premenarchal girls METHODS: We conducted a retrospective case-control study of 32 premenarchal girls aged 0-12 undergoing surgery for OT (cases) or a non-torsed ovarian mass (controls) from 2006 to 2017 at a single academic center. Cases had ICD-9/10 codes for torsion of the ovary, adnexa, ovarian pedicle, or fallopian tube and surgically confirmed OT; controls had codes for ovarian mass or cyst and surgically confirmed absence of OT. Preoperative transabdominal ultrasounds were analyzed by 3 radiologists blinded to final diagnosis. We used χ From 2016 to 2017, 32 patients presented with acute abdominal pain or symptoms concerning for ovarian mass requiring ultrasound imaging and subsequent diagnostic laparoscopy; 24 (75.0%) had confirmed OT by laparoscopy, and 8 (25.0%) did not. The mean age in both groups was similar (7.3 ± 2.9 years). Preoperative sonographic variables significantly associated with OT included presence of a simple cyst (20.8% vs 12.5%), ovarian heterogeneity (100% vs 12.5%), presence of peripheralized follicles (70.8% vs 0%), and asymmetry of color Doppler (75.0% vs 37.5%; all P < .05). Presence of free fluid, arterial color Doppler, and a whirlpool sign were not predictive of OT. In premenarchal patients, although certain variables on transabdominal sonography predicted surgically confirmed OT, only the presence of peripheralized follicles was unique to girls with OT. The decision to proceed with diagnostic laparoscopy for suspected OT can be aided by these specific sonographic findings but should ultimately be based on high clinical suspicion.

Imaging Appearance of Nongerminoma Pediatric Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors Does Not Discriminate Benign from Malignant Histology

Pediatric ovarian neoplasms with imaging appearance suggestive of teratoma are often presumed to have low risk of malignancy. We assessed the pre-operative imaging appearance of pediatric malignant ovarian germ cell tumors (MOGCT) and the presence of associated teratoma in a series of MOGCT. Retrospective review of clinical and pathology data. Multicenter trial for extracranial malignant germ cell tumors in young female individuals by the Children's Oncology Group (COG study AGCT0132) that included yolk sac tumor, embryonal carcinoma and choriocarcinoma. Female individuals 0-20 years of age at enrollment with ovarian primary nonseminomatous malignant germ cell tumors. Review of data forms, including prospectively collected surgical checklist documenting imaging characteristics of the tumor, and review of pathology reports. Description of imaging appearance and frequency of mixed histology with benign teratoma elements. A total of 138 female individuals (11 months to 20 years of age) had primary ovarian tumors. Imaging appearance and pathology information were available for 133 patients. Among the 133 patients, tumor appearance was solid (10.5%), solid with calcification (3.0%), mixed cystic and solid (58.7%), mixed cystic and solid with calcification (24.8%), and unknown (3.0%). In all, 54% had elements of teratoma in addition to malignant histology. Mixed cystic and solid appearance with or without calcification was seen in 83.5% of pediatric ovarian malignant germ cell tumors. Associated benign teratoma was common. The presence of a mixed cystic and solid appearance on preoperative imaging should not dissuade the surgeon from obtaining preoperative serum markers and undertaking complete surgical staging.

Clinical and Computed Tomographic Features of Ovarian Lesions in Infants, Children, and Adolescents: A Series of 222 Cases

To investigate the clinical and computed tomography (CT) characteristics of ovarian lesions in infants, children, and adolescents. A retrospective analysis of the clinical and CT data was performed in 222 patients who were 20 years or younger with ovarian lesions. Patients' age, medical history, symptoms, tumor marker levels, and CT imaging findings were recorded. None. Identification of the clinical and CT features of ovarian lesions in infants, children, and adolescents. A total of 136 patients had abdominal pain, and 73 patients had palpable abdominal mass. The β-HCG was elevated in 4 and AFP was elevated in 16 of the 222 cases. A total of 235 lesions were found in 222 cases, including 75 non-neoplastic and 160 neoplastic lesions. Ovarian cyst exhibited homogeneous low density. The torsion of a normal-sized ovary demonstrated mild or no enhancement. The torsion associated with an ovarian mass demonstrated a thickened, hyperdense wall. Mature teratoma presented as a cystic mass, with bulk fat and coarse calcification. Immature teratoma appeared as a solid mass with foci of fat and fine calcification. Yolk sac tumor was shown as cystic-solid mass with intense enhancement of solid component. Wall and septation of benign epithelial tumors were relatively uniform in thickness; mural nodule was detected in borderline tumor; and malignant epithelial tumor was predominantly a solid mass with intense enhancement. Ovarian cyst is the most common non-neoplastic lesion. Torsion of a normal-sized ovary was the second most common non-neoplastic lesion, almost always causing abdominal pain. Germ cell tumor has the highest incidence among neoplastic lesions. Fat and calcification are highly specific for germ cell tumor. The elevation of AFP and HCG levels in serum indicates germ cell tumor. Ovarian epithelial tumor is usually large, benign, and predominantly cystic. The combination of clinical and imaging features is helpful for correct diagnosis.

Management of Large Pediatric and Adolescent Ovarian Neoplasms with a Leak-Proof Extracorporeal Drainage Technique: Our Experience Using a Hybrid Minimally Invasive Approach

In a pediatric setting, laparoscopic management of large cystic ovarian neoplasms with low malignancy probability is not suitable, because of the mass size; nevertheless, an effort should be made to be as minimally invasive as possible, without violating the principles of oncologic surgery. We describe our experience in managing these neoplasms with leak-proof extracorporeal drainage through mini laparotomy, followed by cyst excision or oophorectomy. Case series study, describing interventions and outcomes. Department of pediatric surgery in a tertiary pediatric and adult university hospital. Pediatric patients affected by large cystic ovarian mass. Hybrid minimally invasive approach using leak-proof extracorporeal drainage. Data on demographic characteristics, tumor marker values, and imaging findings were collected and analyzed. Outcome of surgical technique was evaluated and reported. Between 2011 and 2018, 17 patients (mean age, 10.2 years; range, 2-14 years) affected by large cystic ovarian mass, were eligible for this technique. All patients had negative preoperative tumor markers. Of the seventeen subjects, 13/17 girls (76%) underwent pelvic magnetic resonance imaging. No sign of lymphadenopathy or metastasis was found. Surgery was successful in all patients, with ovarian preservation in 5/17 cases (29.4%). Mean surgical time was 98 minutes; no intra-abdominal leakage of neoplasm content or postoperative complications occurred. Mature cystic teratoma was the most frequent histopathological diagnosis (71%). After a thorough patient selection, the management of large cystic ovarian neoplasms with leak-proof extracorporeal drainage performed through a mini laparotomy is a feasible and safe approach, with excellent cosmetic results. When achievable, ovarian-sparing surgery has to be considered.

The Role of Surgery in Antenatal Ovarian Torsion: Retrospective Evaluation of 28 Cases and Review of the Literature

Antenatal ovarian torsion (AOT) is rare and requires differentiating from other congenital cystic masses of the abdomen and pelvis in neonates. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the prenatal characteristics and postnatal outcomes of AOT. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, INTERVENTIONS, AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Hospital records of patients (n = 28) with diagnosis of AOT between 2004 and 2020 were reviewed and their prenatal characteristics, postnatal examination, imaging, operative, and histopathological findings were evaluated. There were 28 patients during the study period. In most of the patients (25/28; 89.3%) AOTs were detected prenatally. All were term babies with a mean birth weight of 3010 ± 466.6 g. Mean maternal age was 25.75 ± 3.65 years. Prenatal history was event-free in all and none had additional anomalies. Physical examination revealed mobile intra-abdominal cystic lesions in 16 (57.1%) patients. AOTs mimicked other pathologies as intestinal duplication cyst or mesenteric cyst (n = 7), complex ovarian cyst (n = 3), mature cystic teratoma (n = 3), simple renal cyst (n = 1), and ectopic kidney (n = 1) in 15 (53.6%) patients in postnatal ultrasonography. Elective laparoscopic surgery was performed in 26 (92.8%) patients. The other 2 patients required emergency open surgery because of acute symptoms. Ovaries were autoamputated in 17 (60.7%) patients. Histopathological examination revealed necrosis and dystrophic calcification in all specimens. There was neoplastic involvement in 2 patients (serous cystadenoma and gonadoblastoma). No complication occurred in the early follow-up period (mean: 73.9 ± 46.8 months). AOTs can be detected easily during the antenatal period. Neoplastic involvement with AOTs is rare but possible. Although AOTs might mimic other cystic pathologies, it should be one of the first diagnoses to be considered, in the presence of a palpable intra-abdominal mass and complex cystic lesion in infant girls. It can be efficiently and safely managed using minimally invasive techniques.

Growing Teratoma Syndrome and Gliomatosis Peritonei in a 15-Year-Old Girl With Immature Ovarian Teratoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Gliomatosis peritonei (GP) is a rare clinical condition characterized by presence of mature glial cells in the peritoneum. Growing teratoma syndrome (GTS) is described as an uncommon phenomenon that could be related to the incidence of non-seminomatous germ cell tumors. We report a case of a patient treated for immature ovarian teratoma, in whom both GP and GTS were observed, an association to date scarcely described in literature. A 15-year-old girl presented to the emergency department with severe pain in her lower abdomen and right lumbar region. Upon admission, concentration of α-fetoprotein (AFP) was 1500 ng/mL and β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) less than 2 ng/mL. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdominal cavity and pelvis confirmed the presence of an anomalous mass in the abdominal cavity and pelvis. Initial surgery was performed. Histopathology revealed the presence of immature teratoma with epithelial elements. Normalization of AFP was achieved within 8 weeks. Five months after surgery, a progressive increase in AFP was noted. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and CT scans of the pelvis minor showed local relapse. Evaluation of the remission after 2 blocks of preoperative chemotherapy revealed the presence of a large tumor mass in the pelvis minor, despite normalization of the AFP concentration. After opening the abdominal walls, numerous abnormal white nodules were observed in the peritoneum. Histopathology revealed the presence of mature glial tissue (gliomatosis peritonei). The remaining tumor mass was removed, and histopathology confirmed existence of mature teratoma (growing teratoma syndrome). Postoperative chemotherapy was continued. To date, the patient remains under clinical and laboratory remission. Concomitant incidence of GP and GTS, although rare, should always be taken into consideration in pediatric patients with diagnosis of either condition.

Analysis of Outcomes and Prognostic Factors after Fertility-Sparing Surgery in Patients with Early Stage Juvenile Granulosa Cell Tumor of the Ovary: Experience from a Tertiary Center

The objective of the study was to analyze the oncological outcomes and prognostic factors in patients with early-stage juvenile granulosa cell tumor (JGCT) who underwent fertility-sparing surgery. All patients with early-stage JGCT who underwent fertility-sparing surgery between January 1995 and December 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. None. The risk factors for recurrence and death in patients with early-stage JGCT were identified. Thirty-five patients were eligible for the current study. The median age was 17 years (range: 4-30 years), and 10 patients were premenarchal. Nine patients were International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology stage IA, and 26 were stage IC. Eight subjects underwent complete staging, whereas 28 had no staging at their initial surgery. In those without initial staging, 3 patients who received initial unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (USO) and 6 with initial cystectomy underwent secondary surgery for staging or USO with staging, respectively. At the time of the secondary staging operation, 1 of the subjects (treated with USO at initial surgery) was found to be stage III and was excluded from this study. Therefore, 8 patients underwent secondary staging surgery performed by laparoscopic surgery, and none of them suffered recurrence during follow-up. Fourteen of the 16 patients with complete staging surgery underwent lymphadenectomy, and none of them had lymph node metastasis. Thirty-one patients received adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery. Eight patients had disease recurrence after a median follow-up time of 51 months (range: 6-229 months), with a median time to recurrence of 4.5 months (range: 2-52 months). Six patients died of their disease. The 5-year disease-free and overall survival rates were 74.8% and 84.3%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that incomplete staging surgery was associated with increased risk of recurrence (P = 0.029). Adjuvant chemotherapy was not associated with disease-free survival. Four patients had a total of 6 pregnancies, resulting in 6 live births. Complete surgical staging is recommended for early-stage JGCT, but lymph node dissection can be omitted. Laparoscopic restaging surgery is feasible for patients with incomplete staging at initial surgery. However, the prognosis of patients with relapsed JGCT remains poor.

Progression of Cystadenoma to Mucinous Borderline Ovarian Tumor in Young Females: Case Series and Literature Review

To study the progression of benign ovarian lesions to mucinous borderline ovarian tumors (mBOTs); analyze the clinicopathologic features, diagnosis, and management of mBOTs in pediatric and adolescent girls; and provide a review of the literature on mBOTs in this population. Retrospective chart review of female adolescents younger than 18 years diagnosed with mBOTs between July 2017 and February 2021. Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut; and Yale New Haven Health Bridgeport Hospital, Bridgeport, Connecticut. Three female patients diagnosed with mBOTs between ages 12 and 17 years. None. Clinical presentation, preoperative characteristics, surgical technique, histology, tumor stage, treatment, progression, outcome, and rate of recurrence. Three adolescent patients were identified to have mBOTs. All three patients presented with a chief complaint of abdominal pain. One of the 3 patients was premenarchal at presentation. Two of the 3 patients were initially diagnosed with a mucinous cystadenoma and had recurrences of an ovarian cyst in the same ovary within 5 and 17 months, respectively. Pathology of the recurrent cyst was consistent with mBOT. Two of the 3 patients initially underwent cystectomy, and all ultimately had a unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Subsequent surveillance over 2 to 4 years found no evidence of disease recurrence. mBOTs are rare in the pediatric and adolescent population and could arise from benign ovarian tumors.

Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis Associated with Mature Ovarian Teratoma in a Young Adolescent: A Case Report

Ovarian teratoma has an uncommon association with anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis. This is a life-threatening condition, and here, we describe a case of an adolescent girl with anti-NMDAR encephalitis caused by an ovarian teratoma. A 14-year-old girl presented with acute features of fever, severe headache, altered behavioral changes, delirium, autonomic instability, episodes of seizure, and involuntary movement over a period of 1 month. Upon investigation, electroencephalogram (EEG), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of her brain showed normal findings. Her serum and cerebrospinal fluid were positive for anti-NMDARs, and a diagnosis of anti-NMDAR encephalitis was made, so she received a course of intravenous methyl prednisolone and immunoglobulin and was discharged after her neurological status improved. Upon further workup, she was suspected to have a left ovarian dermoid cyst on transabdominal ultrasonogram, which was an incidental finding. Her tumor marker panel showed normal serum lactate dehydrogenase, beta human chorionic gonadotropin, inhibin, alpha-fetoprotein, and carcinoembryonic antigen and a cancer antigen 125 level of 71.5 U/L. She eventually underwent laparoscopic left ovarian cystectomy and received immunotherapy in the postoperative period. She was discharged in stable condition on postoperative day 4. On histopathological examination, the specimen revealed a mature cystic teratoma with glial component. One year after surgery, the patient has recovered completely and has no residual psychiatric or neurological symptoms. Complete recovery after surgery in cases of anti-NMDAR encephalitis with ovarian teratoma emphasizes the need for early recognition of the entity, search for underlying tumor, and tumor removal to improve the prognosis.

Computed Tomography and Clinical Analysis of Ovarian Mucinous Tumors in Adolescent Patients

To investigate the clinical and computed tomography features of ovarian mucinous tumors in children and adolescents. A retrospective analysis of clinical and preoperative computed tomography (CT) data was performed in 59 patients who were 20 years or younger with ovarian mucinous tumors confirmed by histopathology. Patients' age, medical history, symptoms, tumor marker levels, and CT imaging findings were recorded. None. Identification of the clinical and CT features of ovarian mucinous tumors in pediatric and adolescent patients. There were 41 mucinous cystadenomas in 39 cases, 12 borderline mucinous cystadenomas in 11 cases, and 9 mucinous cystadenocarcinomas in 9 patients. A total of 55 tumors were multilocular (55/62, 88.7%), including fewer than 10 loculations in 23 tumors, 10-20 loculations in 17 tumors, and over 20 loculations in 15 tumors. Eleven borderline mucinous cystadenomas were multilocular (11/12, 91.7%), with over 10 loculations in 7 tumors (7/12, 58.3%). Twelve tumors appeared as multilocular cystic-solid (12/62, 19.4%), and a case of mucinous cystadenocarcinoma was predominantly solid (1/62, 1.6%). Seventeen tumors showed honeycomb sign and stained glass appearance. Six mural nodules, with sizes ranging from 1.1 to 3.5 cm (average: 2.8 cm), were found in borderline mucinous cystadenoma and mucinous cystadenocarcinoma. The CT findings of ovarian mucinous tumors in children are characteristic. The preoperative CT is helpful in making differential diagnoses.

Recommendations for Postoperative Surveillance of Pediatric Benign Ovarian Neoplasms

To assess postoperative management of pediatric patients with benign ovarian neoplasms, to develop recommendations for postoperative care. A retrospective cohort study. Eight pediatric hospitals in the midwestern United States. Patients up to 21 years of age who underwent surgery for a benign ovarian neoplasm between January 2010 and December 2016 were included. No prospective interventions were evaluated. Main outcome measures included postoperative imaging findings, recurrence rates, reoperation rates, and the timing of the aforementioned results. A total of 427 patients met inclusion criteria. After the index surgery, 155 patients (36%) underwent a routine imaging study. Among those with routine imaging, abnormalities were noted in 48 patients (31%); 7 went on to have reoperation (5%), and no malignant pathologies or torsion were identified. Excluding the 7 patients who went on to have a reoperation as a result of routine imaging, 113 patients developed symptoms postoperatively and underwent imaging as a result (27%, 113/420). Abnormalities were noted in 44 (10%); 15 of these patients underwent reoperation (4%), among them 2 with malignancies and 3 with torsion. Of these 44 patients, 23 had initially undergone routine imaging and subsequently went on to have symptomatic imaging, with 17% (4/23) undergoing reoperation. Routine imaging did not identify malignancy; most lesions identified on routine imaging were incidental findings. Although the study was not powered to appreciate a statistically significant difference, patients with malignancy or torsion were identified in the symptomatic group. This suggests no benefit from routine imaging, and supports symptomatic imaging postoperatively to minimize costs and patient/family burden.

Benign, Borderline, and Malignant Pediatric Adnexal Masses: A 10-Year Review

To investigate the incidence, clinical features, tumor markers, radiologic findings, types of surgeries, and histologies for adnexal masses in female pediatric and adolescent patients. Retrospective chart review. Children's Health in Dallas and Plano, Texas from 2009 to 2018. Female patients younger than 19 years old who underwent surgical management of an adnexal mass. None. Imaging characteristics, tumor markers, surgical procedures, and histopathology. In total, 752 patients (mean age, 13.7 years) underwent 756 surgical procedures for 781 adnexal masses. Of these, 732/781 (93.7%) were benign, 7/781 (0.9%) were borderline, and 42/781 (5.4%) were malignant. Of all 781 masses, 520/781 (66.6%) were ovarian and 261/781 (33.4%) were paratubal or tubal. Benign masses were associated with Hispanic race, pain, simple or cystic characteristics on imaging, and negative tumor markers. Borderline and malignant masses were associated with white race, pain, mass or distension, larger size, and heterogeneous appearance on imaging. Borderline masses were associated with negative tumor markers. Malignant masses were associated with elevated alpha fetoprotein, beta human chorionic gonadotropin, cancer antigen 125, and lactate dehydrogenase. Most adnexal masses in the pediatric and adolescent population are benign. Benign masses were significantly smaller, more likely to have negative tumor markers, and appear simple or cystic. There is little standardization with respect to preoperative tumor markers for adnexal masses. High-yield tumor markers for malignancy include alpha fetoprotein, beta human chorionic gonadotropin, cancer antigen 125, and lactate dehydrogenase. Low-yield tumor markers include inhibin A and B. Gynecologists performed more fertility-preserving surgeries including mini-laparotomies and fewer laparotomies for benign masses than pediatric surgeons.

National Trends in Cervical Cancer Screening in Adolescents

To characterize patterns of cervical cancer screening among adolescents ages 14-20 years before and after the 2009 American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommendations. Retrospective cohort study. National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey 2005-2016 data. Female adolescents and young women ages 14-26 years. Multivariable logistic regression models identified independent predictors of unindicated cervical cancer screening at office-based visits among adolescents ages 14-20 years. Cervical cancer screening in women ages 14-20 and 21-26 years in 2 time periods: 2005-2008 and 2009-2016. Between 2005 and 2016, 11,768 office visits were among adolescents ages 14-20 years. Overall, the cervical cancer screening rate for young women ages 14-20 years was 4.0%, which decreased from 4.5% to 0.4% (P = .008) during the study period. Adolescents who received cervical cancer screening during an office visit were older (18-20 years: 24.1% vs 14-17 years: 8.2%; P < .001), had a preventive care visit (preventive care: 79.7% vs other visit types: 20.3%; P < .001), and saw an obstetrician/gynecologist (obstetrician/gynecologist: 74.81% vs other specialties: 25.1%; P < .001). After adjusting for age, year, period, insurance status, region, and provider type, screening for cervical cancer was associated with living in the Southern region of the United States (adjusted odds ratio, 1.88; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-3.25; P = .02) and public insurance (adjusted odds ratio, 0.47, 95% confidence interval, 0.34-0.64; P < .001). Despite recommendations, cervical cancer screening continued to occur in the adolescent population-especially older adolescents-creating unnecessary costs and potential harms. These findings show a slow uptake of guidelines nationally and the need for initiatives that encourage implementation of performance measures for providers, including ongoing provider and patient education.

Diagnostic Performance of Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Pediatric Ovarian Neoplasms: A Multi-Institutional Review

To assess the diagnostic performance of MRI to predict ovarian malignancy alone and compared with other diagnostic studies. A retrospective analysis was conducted of patients aged 2-21 years who underwent ovarian mass resection between 2009 and 2021 at 11 pediatric hospitals. Sociodemographic information, clinical and imaging findings, tumor markers, and operative and pathology details were collected. Diagnostic performance for detecting malignancy was assessed by calculating sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) for MRI with other diagnostic modalities. One thousand and fifty-three patients, with a median age of 14.6 years, underwent resection of an ovarian mass; 10% (110/1053) had malignant disease on pathology, and 13% (136/1053) underwent preoperative MRI. MRI sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 60%, 94%, 60%, and 94%. Ultrasound sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 31%, 99%, 73%, and 95%. Tumor marker sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 90%, 46%, 22%, and 96%. MRI and ultrasound concordance was 88%, with sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 33%, 99%, 75%, and 94%. MRI sensitivity in ultrasound-discordant cases was 100%. MRI and tumor marker concordance was 88% with sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 100%, 86%, 64%, and 100%. MRI specificity in tumor marker-discordant cases was 100%. Diagnostic modalities used to assess ovarian neoplasms in pediatric patients typically agree. In cases of disagreement, MRI is more sensitive for malignancy than ultrasound and more specific than tumor markers. Selective use of MRI with preoperative ultrasound and tumor markers may be beneficial when the risk of malignancy is uncertain. This retrospective review of 1053 patients aged 2-21 years who underwent ovarian mass resection between 2009 and 2021 at 11 pediatric hospitals found that ultrasound, tumor markers, and MRI tend to agree on benign vs malignant, but in cases of disagreement, MRI is more sensitive for malignancy than ultrasound.

Gonadal Tumors in Individuals with Turner Syndrome and Y-Chromosome Mosaicism: A Retrospective Multisite Study

To evaluate the prevalence of germ cell tumors and the clinical monitoring practices for those who deferred prophylactic gonadectomy in a large North American cohort of individuals with Turner syndrome with Y-chromosome mosaicism (TS+Y). A query of the medical records at multiple North American children's hospitals was done using ICD codes related to Turner Syndrome. A retrospective chart review was conducted on those patients between ages 0 to 30 years with Y-mosaicism. The data of 57 participants were analyzed. Eight (25.8%, n = 31) ≥ 13 years underwent spontaneous thelarche. One (3.2%) had spontaneous menarche. Forty-seven (82.5%) had gonadectomy at a median age of 8 years (IQR 11.0, range <1 to 19 years). Sixteen (34%) had growth hormone therapy exposure prior to gonadectomy. Fourteen (29.8%) had gonadoblastoma. Two (4.3%) had dysgerminoma. Differences in age at gonadectomy, presence of the entire Y-chromosome, and exposure to growth hormone when comparing those with vs without gonadal tumor were not statistically significant. Gonadectomy had not been performed in 10 individuals, median age 6.5 (IQR 9.0, range <1 to 14 years). There was no consistency in the plan for ultrasound and/or tumor markers for follow-up. Our data shows a prevalence of 24.6% of gonadal tumors in individuals with TS +Y and a relatively low risk of malignant transformation (3.5%). Prior exposure to growth hormone was not predictive of the presence of gonadal tumor. Future cytogenetic studies are needed to better understand the factors involved in the development of gonadal tumors.

Ovarian Dermoid Cyst Trajectory in Premenarchal Girls

Mature ovarian dermoid cysts (ODCs) are the most common benign ovarian tumors diagnosed in children. However, there is minimal data on management of ODCs in premenarchal patients. This study assesses characteristics associated with expectant (EM) vs surgical (SM) management in premenarchal patients and the growth rate of ODCs in EM patients at a single institution. Forty-four premenarchal patients, either post-surgical with pathologically-confirmed ODC or having radiologic findings consistent with ODCs, were included. Data collected included demographics, cyst characteristics, imaging findings, presence of symptoms, surgical procedure performed, and ovarian torsion occurrence. Patient age at diagnosis was similar between groups (SM: 8.8 vs EM: 8.0, P = .55). At presentation, 36 patients (82%) underwent SM and 8 (18%) underwent EM. There was a significant difference in cyst size between groups (SM: 8.9 cm vs EM: 3.6 cm, P = .004). Of SM patients, 30% underwent oophorectomy vs cystectomy, with a significant difference in ODC size between procedures (11.8 cm vs 7.7 cm, P = .016). Of EM patients, 75% had at least one and 60% had three follow-up ultrasounds, with average follow-up timeframes of 3.7 and 27 months respectively. Average yearly ODC growth rate for the latter group was 0.8 cm. The average yearly growth rate of ODCs in premenarchal patients within our institution was slower than in older cohorts, and both age and cyst size played significant roles in determining surgical procedure. Continued study on EM in premenarchal ODCs will help define parameters for recommending SM vs EM in this population.

Clinical and Computed Tomography Features of Female Pelvic Malignant Germ Cell Tumors in Children and Adolescents: A Series of 30 Cases

To investigate the clinical features and computed tomography (CT) findings of malignant pelvic germ cell tumors in female patients and improve the diagnostic level of this disease. The clinical and CT data of 30 female patients with malignant pelvic germ cell tumors confirmed using histopathology were retrospectively analyzed, before surgery, at a tertiary hospital. Patient's age, tumor location, clinical symptoms, tumor marker levels, and CT findings were recorded. None. Identification of the clinical features and CT findings of malignant pelvic germ cell tumors. The patients ranged in age from 11 months to 22 years old, with a mean age of 12.3 years. The 30 cases (30 tumors) included 10 cases of yolk sac tumor, 8 cases of dysgerminoma, and 5 cases of immature teratoma. The alpha-fetoprotein levels were elevated in 8 cases of yolk sac tumor. Eight cases of dysgerminoma showed lobulation sign. Four cases of immature teratoma contained fat and calcification. The fibrovascular septa were observed on contrast-enhanced CT images in 4 cases of dysgerminoma. The "bright dot sign" was noted on contrast enhanced CT images in 9 cases of yolk sac tumor. Remarkable enhancement of the solid component or septa was detected in 10 cases of yolk sac tumor. Obvious enhancement surrounding vascular bundles in the tumor was observed in 5 cases of dysgerminoma. Malignant pelvic germ cell tumors in female patients frequently affect children and adolescents. The CT findings of dysgerminoma, immature teratoma, and yolk sac tumor have certain characteristic features. The combination of CT manifestations, tumor markers, and patient age helps improve the diagnostic level of this disease.

Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination Among Female Patients Attending French Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Centers

To describe human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination practice among adolescent girls with cystic fibrosis (CF) and to identify reasons for non-vaccination. Cross-sectional multicentric study. Girls aged 9-17 years, attending 7 French pediatric CF centers, and their accompanying adult. Administration of a self-report questionnaire. The proportion of girls having received or receiving HPV vaccination, compliance with the vaccination schedule, factors associated with vaccination, and reasons for vaccination and for non-vaccination. A total of 113 girls and 104 accompanying adults participated. The mean age was 13.6 years (standard deviation 2.5; range 9-17). A total of 34 (30.9%) patients reported having received HPV vaccination. Among the 34 girls aged 15 years or older, 15 (44.1%) were vaccinated. Most patients (58.8%) started vaccination between 11 and 14 years of age (mean age 13.9). Most vaccine prescriptions (67.6%) were made by a CF center health care provider. Factors associated with vaccination were older age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01-1.6, P = .037 for each year older), previous vaccination by the accompanying parent of one of their children for hepatitis B (OR = 8.01, 95% CI = 0.96-67.02), P = .055), and parental influence on decision-making (OR = 2.77, 95% CI = 0.97-7.95, P = .058). Health care providers' positive advice and fear of HPV-related disease were the main reasons given to justify vaccination decisions. Insufficient knowledge and concerns about potential side effects were the main barriers. HPV vaccination remains insufficient among girls with CF. CF health care providers may play a crucial role in HPV vaccination acceptance, and their sensitization to cervical cancer prevention is mandatory.

Vaginal Metastases of Wilms’ Tumor in a Pediatric Patient: A Rare Case

Wilms' tumor is the second most common pediatric abdominal cancer; however, it rarely involves the female reproductive tract. There are few cases reported in the literature describing uterine, ovarian, cervical, and vaginal involvement. We report the case of a 7-year-old girl presenting with a large renal mass with retroperitoneal nodal and lung metastases; she was diagnosed with stage 4 favorable histology Wilms' tumor. She was treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. She presented with vaginal bleeding 10 months after completing treatment; biopsy of a vaginal mass confirmed recurrence, and this was sent for molecular profiling, which did not identify an inherited cancer predisposition or targetable mutation. She was again treated with chemotherapy; examination redemonstrated a small vaginal mass, but re-biopsy of the lesion was negative for malignancy. Due to high risk of local relapse, ongoing chemotherapy and pelvic radiation ensued. End-of-treatment imaging and vaginoscopy showed no residual disease. Vaginal metastases of Wilms' tumor are very rare; this is the second reported case in the literature. Pediatric clinicians should have a strong suspicion for vaginal metastases in cancer patients presenting with vaginal bleeding, especially when their pubertal development does not suggest that bleeding would be secondary to menarche. Long-term gynecologic care for these patients is paramount to reduce morbidity from chemotherapy and pelvic radiation. Fertility preservation counselling should be made early, through referral to a specialist.

Prepubertal Vaginal Bleeding: An Inpatient Series from a Single Center in Fujian China

This study characterizes the etiology, clinical features and outcomes of prepubescent vaginal bleeding and summarizes our experience. The data of patients who were hospitalized with vaginal discharge or bleeding treated from January 2012 to December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. A provincial Grade III Level A Maternity and Children's Hospital. Prepubertal patients with vaginal discharge or bleeding. Patient age, bleeding duration, etiology, treatment and prognosis were recorded. Physical examinations and color Doppler ultrasonography were also performed. There were 158 patients aged from 1 month to 10 years (mean age 5.2 years). Bleeding duration ranged from 1 to 98 days, with an average of 13.3 days. Sixty patients were diagnosed with vaginal foreign bodies, 34 with vulvovaginitis, 34 with vulvar trauma, 13 with ovarian granulosa cell tumors, 8 with urethral mucosa prolapse, 5 with vaginal yolk sac tumors and 1 each with pituitary tumor, hypothyroidism, McCune-Albright syndrome, and short-term intake of a large number of strawberries. All the children were treated according to their different disease etiologies. Prepubertal vaginal bleeding is caused by a variety of different conditions. In our study, the most common causes were vaginal foreign bodies, vulvovaginitis, trauma, vaginal malignant tumors and urethral mucosa prolapse. Careful medical histories and targeted examinations are needed. Vaginoscopy could be considered. Considering the different causes, different treatments should be administered to achieve a good prognosis.

Ovarian Torsion in Adolescents with and without ovarian mass: A Cross-sectional Study

The aim of this study was to compare the characteristics of adolescents with and without adnexal mass who were diagnosed with ovarian torsion (OT). Retrospective cross-sectional study. Gynecology Department at Tepecik Education and Reseach Hospital, Izmir, Turkey. Adolescent girls who received surgery for OT between March 2012 and October 2020 in our institution. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the presence or absence of an ovarian mass and compared. Demographic and clinical characteristics, imaging findings, surgery, and pathology reports of the patients were obtained. Differences in initial symptoms, ultrasound findings, the diagnostic process, and the degree of torsion in patients with and without ovarian mass. Seventy-six patients were diagnosed with OT. Of the 76 patients, 41/76 (53.9%) had an ovarian mass (OTwM), and 35/76 (46.1%) had no pathology (OTnP). The admission to surgery interval was longer in the OTnP group (P = .03). Ultrasound findings of ovarian edema and the appearance of free fluid were significant in the OTnP group (P = .001). The largest dimension of the nontorsion ovary in the OTnP group was greater than in the OTwM group (P = .03). In addition, it was found that torsion more than 360° was more common in the OTnP group than in the OTwM group (24/35, 68.5% vs 41/18, 43.9%; P = .03). In symptomatic adolescents without an ovarian mass, the presence of follicle peripheralization suggesting ovarian edema on ultrasound and the presence of free fluid in the abdomen are important in terms of suspicion of torsion for clinicians. In addition, the degree of torsion was increased in these patients.

Use and Accuracy of Intraoperative Frozen Section Analysis for Ovarian Masses in Children and Adolescents

Describe the current practice patterns and diagnostic accuracy of frozen section (FS) pathology for children and adolescents with ovarian masses DESIGN: Prospective cohort study from 2018 to 2021 SETTING: Eleven children's hospitals PARTICIPANTS: Females age 6-21 years undergoing surgical management of an ovarian mass INTERVENTIONS: Obtaining intraoperative FS pathology MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Diagnostic accuracy of FS pathology RESULTS: Of 691 patients who underwent surgical management of an ovarian mass, FS was performed in 27 (3.9%), of which 9 (33.3%) had a final malignant pathology. Among FS patients, 12 of 27 (44.4%) underwent ovary-sparing surgery, and 15 of 27 (55.5%) underwent oophorectomy with or without other procedures. FS results were disparate from final pathology in 7 of 27 (25.9%) cases. FS had a sensitivity of 44.4% and specificity of 94.4% for identifying malignancy, with a c-statistic of 0.69. Malignant diagnoses missed on FS included serous borderline tumor (n = 1), mucinous borderline tumor (n = 2), mucinous carcinoma (n = 1), and immature teratoma (n = 1). FS did not guide intervention in 10 of 27 (37.0%) patients: 9 with benign FS underwent oophorectomy, and 1 with malignant FS did not undergo oophorectomy. Of the 9 patients who underwent oophorectomy with benign FS, 5 (55.6%) had benign and 4 (44.4%) had malignant final pathology. FSs are infrequently utilized for pediatric and adolescent ovarian masses and could be inaccurate for predicting malignancy and guiding operative decision-making. We recommend continued assessment and refinement of guidance before any standardization of use of FS to assist with intraoperative decision-making for surgical resection and staging in children and adolescents with ovarian masses.

Failure of Operative Therapy after Ovarian-Sparing Surgery for Pediatric Benign Ovarian Neoplasms: A Retrospective Review

To evaluate failure of initial operative therapy (incomplete tumor removal) of ovarian-sparing surgery for pediatric benign ovarian neoplasms. A retrospective review of patients up to 21 years of age who underwent ovarian-sparing surgery for a benign ovarian neoplasm from 2010 to 2016 at 8 pediatric hospitals was conducted. Failure of initial operative therapy is defined as a radiologically suspected or pathologically confirmed ipsilateral lesion with the same pathology as the primary neoplasm within 12 weeks of the initial operation. Forty patients received imaging within 12 weeks of their primary operation. Sixteen (40%) patients had a radiologically identified ovarian abnormality ipsilateral to the primary lesion, and 5 patients were suspected to have the same lesion as their primary neoplasm. Three of the 5 patients (7.5%) underwent reoperation with pathologic confirmation of the same lesion, resulting in a pathologically confirmed failure of therapy rate of 7.5%. The other 2 patients had serial imaging that subsequently demonstrated no recurrence with lesion resolution. Age, race/ethnicity, laparoscopy vs laparotomy, presence of torsion, pathology, size of lesion, and surgeon specialty were not associated with failure of therapy. In most patients who received imaging within 12 weeks of the primary operation for resection of a benign ovarian neoplasm, ovarian-sparing surgery was successful in complete tumor removal, with a low failure of therapy rate. Selected patients with suspected failure of therapy on initial imaging could be serially monitored to determine the need for repeat surgical intervention.

Vaginal Yolk Sac Tumor: A Case Series and Review of the Literature

To report diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of vaginal yolk sac tumor (YST) cases at a single institution and review literature on vaginal YST to outline advancements in diagnosis, treatment, and survival. Retrospective chart review of female patients less than 21 years of age with pathologic diagnosis of vaginal YST treated at a large children's hospital, and summary of a 100-year review of the literature on vaginal yolk sac tumor. Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, a tertiary center in Atlanta, GA. Female patients less than 21 years of age diagnosed with vaginal YST. Two cases of vaginal YST at our institution are outlined. Both patients presented within the first 2 years of life with vaginal bleeding and were treated successfully with chemotherapy alone. After review of the literature, 137 cases of vaginal YST were found. The mean age at diagnosis was 11 months, and all patients presented with vaginal bleeding. Before 2000, more radical treatments were pursued, and 40% resulted in death. Since the year 2000, treatment has shifted toward chemotherapy and more conservative surgical management, with 51% of vaginal YST cases treated with chemotherapy alone with 92% of patients alive at time of publication. Our cases contribute to the limited literature demonstrating the efficacy of conservative management of rare cases of vaginal YST with chemotherapy alone. This case series and review of the literature provide mounting evidence that vaginal YST should be in the differential diagnosis in young girls with vaginal tumors, and conservative management of vaginal YST has excellent outcomes.

Multi-Institutional Review of the Preoperative Diagnostic Accuracy for Pediatric Ovarian Mature Cystic Teratomas

To assess the preoperative imaging impression and surgeon diagnostic accuracy for pediatric ovarian mature cystic teratomas (MCTs) DESIGN: Retrospective review SETTING: Eleven pediatric hospitals PARTICIPANTS: Patients ages 2 to 21 who underwent surgical management of an ovarian neoplasm or adnexal torsion with an associated ovarian lesion INTERVENTION: None MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Preoperative imaging impression, surgeon diagnosis, tumor markers, and pathology RESULTS: Our cohort included 946 females. Final pathology identified 422 (45%) MCTs, 405 (43%) other benign pathologies, and 119 (12%) malignancies. Preoperative imaging impression for MCTs had a 70% sensitivity, 92% specificity, 88% positive predictive value (PPV), and 79% negative predictive value (NPV). For the preoperative surgeon diagnosis, sensitivity was 59%, specificity 96%, PPV 92%, and NPV 74%. Some measures of diagnostic accuracy were affected by the presence of torsion, size of the lesion on imaging, imaging modality, and surgeon specialty. Of the 352 masses preoperatively thought to be MCTs, 14 were malignancies (4%). Eleven patients with inaccurately diagnosed malignancies had tumor markers evaluated and 82% had at least 1 elevated tumor marker, compared with 49% of those with MCTs. Diagnostic accuracy for the preoperative imaging impression and surgeon diagnosis is lower than expected for pediatric ovarian MCTs. For all ovarian neoplasms, preoperative risk assessment including a panel of tumor markers and a multidisciplinary review is recommended. This process could minimize the risk of misdiagnosis and improve operative planning to maximize the use of ovarian-sparing surgery for benign lesions and allow for appropriate resection and staging for lesions suspected to be malignant.

Cervical Cancer Screening of Adolescents and Young Women: Further Evidence Shows a Lack of Clinical Value

To assess the prevalence of cytological abnormalities among young people from a large population in the city of São Paulo (Brazil). Retrospective, observational analysis of data from the institution's data processing center. A private laboratory in São Paulo (Brazil). Comparison of 3 different groups (ie, adolescent women [aged ≤19 years], young adult women [aged between 20 and 24 years], and adult women [aged 25 years and older]). Assessment of results from all cervical-vaginal smears collected for cytology between January 2010 and December 2015. Comparative analysis of cytological abnormalities in the 3 different groups. A total of 1,026,671 satisfactory cytology tests were performed. The proportion of cytological abnormalities was found to decrease with age (P < .001) and was similar in the groups comprised of adolescents and young adults, with 3.405/ 20.921 (16.3%) and 13,635/ 78,277 (17.4%), respectively, and 74,320/ 927,473 (8.0%) in the group of adult patients (P < .001). Among the positive cytologies in the group of adolescents, 3,331/ 3,405 (97.8%) represented low-grade lesions and 74/ 3,405 (2.2%) high-grade lesions, whereas among adults older than 25 years old, these figures were 69,092/ 74.320 (93%) and 5,228/ 74.320 (6.9%), respectively. No cases of cancer were found in the group of adolescents. Cytological screening of young people is not recommended because of the low prevalence of high-grade cytological abnormalities in this population, with cancer being a rare event. This inadvertent screening could lead to unnecessary complementary exams and overtreatment, which could compromise the reproductive future of these young women.

Publisher

Elsevier BV

ISSN

1083-3188