Steroid Cell Tumor: A Rare Ovarian Tumor

Abstract

Ovarian steroid cell tumors are sex-cord stromal tumors that arise from lutein cells or leydig cells. These are very rare-accounting for <0.1% of all ovarian tumors.. Some of these tumors may be functional and secrete hormones. Nearly 56-77% of the cases present with hyperandrogenism. Rarely steroid cell tumors may arise in the adrenal cortex from the adrenal rest cellsWe report a case of a 60-year old lady who presented with gradual onset abdominal distension for two years. She had no other complains and had undergone hysterectomy 20 years back. Her abdomen was over distended due to a large, tense cystic, non-tender mass. Imaging studies revealed a large, mainly cystic abdominopelvic mass; however its origin could not be made out. The left adrenal gland was found to be bulky but morphologically normal. Serum DHEAS levels were normal thus ruling out adrenal pathology. Serum levels of CA 125 and CEA were also normal. Exploratory laparotomy was done. A large thin walled cyst occupied the pelvis and abdomen. . It measured 25x20x16cm and contained 4.2 litre of straw colored fluid. The fluid was drained and the entire cyst wall was excised. Ovaries were not visualized. Frozen section report of the cyst wall was suggestive of a neuroendocrine tumor. Final histopathology report was of benign steroid cell tumor not otherwise specified.