Malignant ovarian tumors in children

Malignant ovarian tumors in childhood, though uncommon, should be considered in any female child with an abdominal mass. The treatment is prompt, complete surgical removal if possible. These tumors vary greatly in their malignancy, but if removed before spread has taken place, the child's prognosis may be relatively good. Unfortunately, complete resection is frequently impossible. Radical surgery has no place in this disease, but radiotherapy and chemotherapy may give some palliation. Long-term favorable results are the exception as exemplified by a 73% mortality in the small series of 15 patients reviewed here.