Ovarian hemangioma: Differential diagnosis of ovarian cancer

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Ovarian cavernous hemangioma is a rare benign vascular tumor primarily found as either an isolated ovarian mass or as diffuse abdominopelvic hemangiomatosis. Its discovery is often incidental, but symptomatic presentations can occur, including ovarian torsion, can occur without any specification. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 55-year-old menopausal woman with chronic pelvic pain. Initial diagnostic imaging and tumor markers suggested ovarian malignancy. Subsequent investigations, including ultrasound and MRI, revealed a vascularized adnexal mass with characteristics mimicking malignancy. Surgical exploration through laparoscopy unveiled an 8 cm multicystic solid-cystic lesion with histopathological analysis confirming a 9 cm cavernous hemangioma. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Histologically, the lesion displayed features consistent with a benign vascular malformation. Literature review indicates variability in presentations and diagnostic challenges in distinguishing these lesions from malignant ovarian tumors. Treatment involved successful cystectomy via laparoscopic surgery, ensuring ovarian preservation so as not to increase the cardiovascular risk due to bilateral annexectomy. CONCLUSION: Ovarian cavernous hemangiomas pose diagnostic challenges due to their rarity and potential mimicry of malignancy. Timely recognition through imaging modalities, especially MRI, and confirmation via histopathological examination remain pivotal. Ovarian-sparing surgical interventions are recommended, particularly for younger patients without suspicious tumor features. Despite their rarity, awareness of these lesions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.