Gangliocytic paraganglioma arising from mature cystic teratoma of the ovary

Abstract

Background: Gangliocytic paraganglioma is a rare neoplasm involving the small intestine, stomach, and spinal cord. Ovarian gangliocytic paraganglioma has not been reported in the medical literature.

Case: A 55-year-old caucasian woman underwent exploratory laparotomy, total abdominal hysterectomy, and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for evaluation of a persistent right adnexal mass. Microscopic examination of the right ovary revealed a mature cystic teratoma with a mural nodule consistent with gangliocytic paraganglioma. As there was no evidence of significant pleomorphism or neoplastic infiltration, surgical staging was not performed.

Conclusion: Gangliocytic paraganglioma may arise from ovarian cystic teratoma. Although most cases of gangliocytic paragangliomas are benign, surgical staging and retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy may be required if histopathology is suggestive of invasive disease or if enlarged lymph nodes are noted.