What is Gonadoblastoma of the Ovary?
Gonadoblastoma of the ovary is a rare type of tumour (abnormal growth of tissues) of the ovary. Gonadoblastoma of the ovary contains different types of cells, including germ cells, stromal cells, and granulosa cells. Germ cells develop into eggs in females and into sperm in males. Typically, these tumours are not cancerous, but if left untreated, they may become cancerous.
Disease Causes
People with gonadal dysgenesis (It is a condition in which there is an abnormal development of ovaries and testes in babies during pregnancy) are at high risk of developing gonadoblastoma and the risk further increases with age.
Signs and Symptoms
Common symptoms of ovarian gonadoblastoma in females include the development of male characteristics, abnormal genital development, delayed onset of menstruation, and excessive hair growth.
Diagnosis
Following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make the diagnosis:
- Complete blood count ( CBC)
- Serum tumour markers
- Imaging techniques like ultrasonography (USG), CT-scan, MRI, and X-Ray to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Pelvic examination through per-speculum examination of the vagina, cervix, and ovaries. A speculum is a gynecological instrument used to visualise the vaginal wall, cervix, uterus, and ovaries to detect any abnormalities.
Treatment
The main treatment for gonadoblastoma is surgical removal of the abnormal ovaries. A unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, which involves removing the affected ovary and its fallopian tube, is commonly performed. In advanced metastatic cases, chemotherapy is the primary treatment option.
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