Point-of-care ultrasound can be helpful in the differentiation of the three primary types of ovarian neoplasms: mucinous cystadenoma, serous cystadenoma, and cystadenocarcinoma.
Mucinous Cystadenoma
These types of tumors are the most common type of benign ovarian neoplasm. Patients may appear “gravid” if the mass has grown extensively into the abdomen.
On ultrasound, you can expect to see a cystic mass filled with mucinous material (several small, low-level internal echoes).
Serous Cystadenoma
These tumors are a less common type of benign ovarian neoplasm.
Ultrasound findings include a cystic mass with:
- Several thin septations that undulate with transducer palpation.
- Few/no internal echoes
Serous Cystadenocarcinoma
These tumors are malignant and appear on ultrasound as cystic masses with:
- Thick septa
- Mural nodularity
- Solid tissue with internal vascularization
- Another clue pointing toward malignancy is the presence of ascites, which is generally absent in benign conditions
