Chemotherapeutic treatment of a pregnant patient with ovarian dysgerminoma

Background Diagnosis of malignant ovarian tumours during pregnancy is uncommon. This report presents a case of a pregnant woman with ovarian dysgerminoma. Case report At 24 weeks gestation, a 33-year-old patient was diagnosed with unilateral ovarian dysgerminoma. Because the tumour was considered to be at an advanced stage (FIGO III), she received three cycles of paclitaxel and carboplatin. At 36 weeks gestation, she underwent a caesarean section, abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingovarectomy, omentectomy, and lymphadenectomy. After surgery, she received three additional cycles of chemotherapy in an adjuvant setting. At birth, the infant was responsive to stimuli, and 20 months after delivery, the infant exhibited normal development. Conclusion This case report illustrates the difficulties arising from diagnosis of malignancy during pregnancy. Although combined treatment with paclitaxel and carboplatin is not considered a first-line therapy for ovarian dysgerminoma, in this case report it elicited an excellent response, and there were no adverse effects on the foetus.