Endometriosis-associated Ovarian Cancers

Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2017 Dec;60(4):711-727. doi: 10.1097/GRF.0000000000000320.

Abstract

Endometriosis-associated cancers include clear cell and endometrioid ovarian carcinoma. A history of endometriosis has long been considered to be a risk factor for later development of these malignancies; however, recent molecular genetic evidence has provided unequivocal evidence that these lesions are in fact the precursors for endometriosis-associated cancers. Herein, we will explore the relationship between endometriosis and ovarian carcinomas, similarities between the premalignant lesions and their cancerous counterparts, and the potential role of mutations and the ovarian microenvironment that may contribute to malignant transformation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell / genetics*
  • Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Endometrioid / genetics*
  • Carcinoma, Endometrioid / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial
  • Endometriosis / complications*
  • Endometriosis / genetics
  • Endometriosis / pathology
  • Endometrium / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial / genetics*
  • Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial / pathology
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / pathology
  • Ovary / pathology