Krukenberg tumor
Pronunciation: KROO-ken-berg
Ovarian metastasis from gastrointestinal cancer, typically signet ring cell type.
Full Definition
A Krukenberg tumor is a metastatic ovarian tumor that originates from a primary gastrointestinal malignancy, classically from gastric cancer with signet ring cell histology. The tumor was first described by Friedrich Krukenberg in 1896 and represents transcoelomic spread of cancer cells to the ovaries. These metastases typically appear as bilateral ovarian masses and may be the presenting manifestation of an occult GI primary tumor. The prognosis is generally poor due to the advanced stage of disease at presentation. Other GI primaries that can cause Krukenberg tumors include colorectal, appendiceal, and small bowel cancers.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize as it's an eponymous term; always investigate for GI primary.
In Context
- "Bilateral ovarian masses raised suspicion for Krukenberg tumors from gastric primary." — Radiology interpretation
- "Histology confirmed Krukenberg tumor with signet ring cell morphology." — Pathology report